Europe: Eurostar has reaffirmed its plans to launch direct train services from London to Germany and Switzerland by the early 2030s, seeking to solidify its foothold with rising competition for space at its Temple Mills depot in east London.
The cross-Channel rail operator’s chief executive, Gwendoline Cazenave, said she did not doubt that the new international routes including those to Frankfurt and Geneva would become a reality, marking a substantial shift toward sustainable long-distance travel across Europe.
Cazenave stated that, “The willingness of passengers, Eurostar, and governments is aligned,” expressing confidence in crushing the infrastructure and regulatory hurdles involved.
Competitive pressure mounts
The UK’s rail regulator, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), has called for submissions from Eurostar and potential rivals to determine how limited depot space will be allocated. Only one new operator or an expansion by Eurostar can be accommodated at the Temple Mills facility.
Among those vying for access are Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, which has announced a 12-train cross-Channel service, British startup Gemini Trains, chaired by Labour peer Lord Berkeley, and Italy’s FS Italiane in partnership with Spanish firm Evolyn.
While Eurostar claims the current depot space cannot support additional players, it has offered to co-finance a new depot, advising the UK government to outline a national strategy to support international rail growth.
Eurostar’s proposed services would connect London to Frankfurt in roughly five hours, with Geneva expected to be just 20 minutes further. The operator said increasing demand on these air routes demonstrates strong potential for a shift to rail, especially among sustainability-conscious business and leisure travellers.
The company is currently in the process of choosing a manufacturer for up to 50 next-generation trains under $2.28 billion (€2 billion) procurement plan. These new trains would be equipped to handle the diverse technical systems and border requirements across multiple European countries.
Record growth and network expansion
Eurostar reported a 5 percent increase in passenger numbers last year, reaching 19.5 million travellers across its network in the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. Revenues rose 2 percent in 2024 to $2.28 billion (€2 billion).
Additionally, the operator confirmed enhancements to its existing route to the Netherlands. Following the completion of construction at Amsterdam’s international terminus, Eurostar will increase its direct London-Amsterdam services to four daily return trips from 9 September, with a fifth to be added in mid-December.
A recent memorandum of understanding signed between the UK and Switzerland further signals governmental backing for the planned expansion, laying the groundwork for smoother bilateral coordination in future cross-border operations.
Eurostar described the upcoming phase as a ‘new golden age of international sustainable travel,’ asserting that the time is now right for its long-envisioned European expansion.
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