Eurostar has reported a record increase in passenger numbers for 2025, with a 2.6% year-on-year rise, largely attributed to sustained business travel demand. This growth is expected to positively impact the UK and European economies, according to Jason Geall, Executive Vice President SME at American Express Global Business Travel. The planned liberalisation of the Channel Tunnel is also anticipated to enhance this economic boost.
The trend towards rail travel is being embraced by both travellers and businesses as a sustainable and productive mode of transport. Research from American Express Global Business Travel indicates that 92% of European rail travellers work during their journeys, with 47% citing productivity as the primary reason for choosing trains over other transport options.
Geall highlighted the strategic importance of the Channel Tunnel as a business travel corridor, noting that Eurostar accounts for nearly three-quarters of business trips between the UK and France, and one in five between the UK and Belgium. "Eurostar's record passenger volumes, paired with plans to grant access to more providers, means the Tunnel's role connecting key economies will only grow," he stated.
The increase in Eurostar's passenger numbers underscores the growing preference for rail travel among business travellers, which is expected to continue as more providers gain access to the Channel Tunnel, further strengthening economic ties between the UK and Europe.
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