Virgin Train. Photo illustration: Virgin Virgin Group plans to enter the international high-speed rail market between Britain and mainland Europe, with new services that will connect London to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam from 2030. The company has unveiled a first rendering of the new trains in the brand's signature black-and-red design and said it intends to operate 20 round trips daily.
Under the plan, the new service will add almost 7.5 million seats a year on routes crossing the English Channel, giving passengers another option alongside the existing operator, Eurostar. Virgin estimates the venture will boost tourism and business travel and create up to 1,000 new jobs.
To operate the service, Virgin signed an agreement with French train manufacturer Alstom to supply 12 Avelia Stream trains, which can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h. Alstom will also maintain the trains under a 30-year contract.
Virgin promises to offer a travel experience that combines design, comfort, food, and service inspired by the other group companies.
Among other things, the company plans to draw inspiration from Virgin Atlantic’s hospitality complexes, Virgin Voyages’ culinary experience and the design of the group’s hotels. Passengers will also be able to earn and redeem points through the Virgin Red club.
The company is also exploring integrating the planned rail network with Virgin Atlantic's flight network, with the aim of making it easier for passengers arriving in London to continue to destinations in Europe, and vice versa.
Another significant step is an agreement signed with Eurostar to maintain Virgin trains at its Temple Mills site in east London. The company also said it has secured access to tracks in the UK until at least 2040.
Virgin Group CEO Josh Bayliss said the company is looking to challenge the status quo and offer passengers a new option for travelling between the UK and Europe. Further details about the service, trains and passenger experience are expected to be announced in the coming month.