Source link In recent months the number of passengers travelling on the Eurostar train plummeted to its lowest levels in twenty years. With COVID-19 travel restrictions in place, Eurostar has seen a marked decrease of thirty percent in its passenger numbers.
Since its creation in 1994, Eurostar has become one of the most popular routes for travellers between the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. From London to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, the Eurostar has been a major mode of transport for those seeking to cross international boarders for business or pleasure.
With the current border closures and travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Eurostar’s monthly passenger numbers have dropped dramatically. Last month, the train line carried just 1.5 million passengers, representing a 30% decrease from the same period last year.
To combat the revenue losses from fewer passengers, Eurostar has implemented cost-cutting measures, such as reducing its staff head-count and furloughing some existing employees. The company also restructured its fares, making it more affordable to attract visitors.
Not surprisingly, the significant drop in passenger numbers has had a significant impact on Eurostar’s business. In April, the company reported losses of £40 million for the first quarter of 2020.
In spite of these stark figures, there is some hope for a recovery. As travel restrictions are eased, more people are beginning to plan trips abroad. If passenger numbers increase in the coming months, this could be the beginning of a much-needed reprieve for the Eurostar.
Overall, the decrease in passenger numbers has been severe and the company continues to take necessary steps to recover. By implementing cost-cutting measures and restructuring fares, Eurostar is poised to benefit from a potential uptick in passengers and turn the tide of its recent losses.
