Eurostar Launches Upgrade Bid for First Class Seats
Eurostar has launched an upgrade bid offer, letting passengers bid for an upgrade from Standard (2nd class) to Plus (1st class) on the train.
Upgrade offer
The new upgrade offer will allow Eurostar passengers to place a bid before departure for a better seat and enhanced service on the train.
Specifically, eligible passengers in Eurostar Standard (2nd class) will be able to bid for an upgrade to Eurostar Plus, which is comparable to first class.
While Eurostar Standard has seats in a 2+2 configuration on either side of the aisle, Eurostar Plus offers a more spacious 1+2 layout.
On routes to and from the UK, Eurostar Plus also includes a complimentary meal, water, coffee or tea, and a drink of choice, including wine or beer, whereas Standard class passengers must purchase snacks and drinks from the café-bar coach.
Only upgrades from Eurostar Standard to Eurostar Plus will be available through the upgrade bid, as passengers will not be able to place a bid for Eurostar Premier, the operator’s premium first class product.
Eurostar Plus seating. ©AndyBTravels
How does the Eurostar upgrade bid works
Eurostar will email eligible passengers travelling in Standard class before departure to ask if they are interested in placing a bid for a seat in Eurostar Plus.
Alternatively, you can check the dedicated upgrade bid subpage on the Eurostar website by entering your booking reference and name to see if your ticket is eligible.
If your ticket is eligible, you can place an offer for a seat in Eurostar Plus.
Naturally, the higher your bid, the more likely you are to win the upgrade to Eurostar Plus, although this is never guaranteed and depends on several factors, including availability.
You will need to provide your credit card details when placing the bid, although your card will not yet be charged.
At least 24 hours before departure, Eurostar will inform you whether your upgrade bid has been successful.
If your upgrade bid is successful, you will be issued a new ticket for Eurostar Plus, and your credit card will be charged the amount of your bid.
If your bid is unsuccessful, you will retain your normal seat in Eurostar Standard, and your card will not be charged.
A complimentary meal in Eurostar Plus. ©AndyBTravels
Plusgrade
Eurostar has partnered with Plusgrade to create the upgrade bid application.
Plusgrade is the global leader when it comes to offering such upgrade bid applications and other ancillerary revenue solutions.
If you’re a frequent air traveller, you may have seen Plusgrade upgrade bid offers used by several major international airlines, including British Airways, TAP Air Portugal, Air Europa, Brussels Airlines, and Lufthansa.
Eurostar CCO François le Doze said: “At Eurostar, we are always looking for our customers to enjoy the best possible experience.
“Partnering with Plusgrade enables us to offer a more flexible and personalized approach to upgrades, ensuring that our passengers can enjoy premium experiences at a value that suits them.
“We are delighted with the results so far and look forward to continuing to enhance the journey for every traveller.”
Eurostar train at London St Pancras station. ©AndyBTravels
Conclusion
Eurostar is now allowing eligible Standard Class passengers to place an upgrade bid for a seat in Eurostar Plus, the train operator’s First Class product.
For train companies like Eurostar, upgrade bids are a great way to increase ancillary revenues, while for passengers, they offer a cost-effective way to potentially secure a more comfortable seat with better service compared to purchasing a full-fare first class ticket.
