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4w ago

Gemini Announces Plans to Challenge Eurostar with London–Paris and Brussels Routes

The UK-based rail firm aims to break Eurostar's monopoly by offering competitive fares, though hurdles such as infrastructure access and funding remain significant.

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Eurostar has had the monopoly on cross-Channel services for 30 years (Photo: Artie | Photography/Getty)
This latest potential Eurostar rival has been working on the project for two years (Photo: Alena Kravchenko/Getty)
Eurostar could be joined by up to two competitors in running trains on cross-Channel routes

Overview

  • Gemini has formally announced its intention to launch high-speed rail services connecting London with Paris and Brussels, with additional destinations under consideration.
  • The company has applied to the UK Office of Rail and Road for access to Eurostar’s Temple Mills maintenance depot in east London, a critical step for operations.
  • Gemini is positioning itself as a serious contender with a leadership team featuring experienced rail professionals, including Lord Tony Berkeley and Adrian Quine.
  • Eurostar's financial struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to reduced services and higher ticket prices, have created an opening for competitors like Gemini.
  • Challenges for new entrants include acquiring costly high-speed trains, securing infrastructure access, and addressing border control requirements at potential stations like Ebbsfleet.