The Eurostar rail company, which links a number of European countries (including France and England), has joined forces with the Plusgrade expert, managed by General Atlantic. The objectives are multiple: to make the upgrade approach more flexible and accessible for passengers, while enabling Plusgrade to strengthen its position in the rail passenger transport market.
Plusgrade wants to introduce the possibility of bidding for an upgrade, instead of paying directly for the Eurostar Plus class. The Canadian company is no novice when it comes to ancillary revenues and traveler services. The company is responsible, for example, for the "subscribe to Miles" innovation. "This partnership reflects our shared commitment to enhancing travelers' stay while generating significant ancillary revenue for our partners. Together, we offer passengers more opportunities to travel in optimal conditions, while helping Eurostar to optimize its operations and resources," said Ken Harris, CEO and founder of Plusgrade.
How will it work?
Eligible passengers will receive an invitation by e-mail before their departure, and will be able to submit an offer up to 24 hours before their journey. They will know at least one day in advance if their request has been accepted. This innovative system enables Eurostar to maximize the use of its premium seats, while offering travelers more flexible access to superior services. The service is being rolled out progressively on routes between London, Paris, Amsterdam and Brussels, but the rail company plans to extend it to other destinations this year.