EUROPE: Ridesharing app company Uber has announced a co-branding partnership with Gemini Trains, which is developing plans to launch open access passenger services through the Channel Tunnel.
Gemini plans to purchase 10-newly designed trains to offer ‘comfortable high-quality and frequent’ services with competitive fares, running from London Stratford International station - which has never been used for international services - to Paris Nord and Brussels Midi. All trains would call at Ebbsfleet International, which Eurostar no longer serves. Gemini also plans to expand services to ‘further exciting European destinations’, suggesting that Paris and Brussels are ‘just the start’.
Under the marketing agreement announced on May 21, Uber would co-brand the service and sell tickets through its app. Gemini would be fully responsible for train operations. This is similar to the Uber Boat collaboration in London, where Uber brands ferry services which are fully operated by Thames Clippers.
Details on the final branding for the Gemini service are being developed and will be announced at a later date.
Uber began offering UK customers the ability to book inter-city trains, coaches, hire bikes, car rentals and flights via its app two years ago, and it says the rail business has since averaged a double-digit monthly growth rate.
‘We’ve seen amazing momentum since we began launching new modes of transport in the UK, and this collaboration with Gemini Trains is our latest step in how we’re helping people get where they want to go’, said General Manager of Uber UK Andrew Brem.
Gemini CEO Adrian Quine said it was ’really exciting to be teaming up with Uber, an instantly recognisable global brand which has revolutionised the travel industry. Now passengers will be able to enjoy the same value and comfort on brand new cutting edge trains at the touch of a button.’
