Cross-Channel rail operator Eurostar has today revealed research that shows that international high-speed rail is making the UK’s economy more competitive and productive, and improving its connection with Europe.

The study was conducted by the policy research agency Public First, which published its findings in a report titled Fast Track to Growth. Its calculations showed that Eurostar contributes £2 billion to the UK economy, and that it supports around 23,000 jobs around Britain.

It anticipates that these figures will surge over the next ten years, forecasting a 40% growth in the economic contribution and a 70% growth in the number of jobs supported. It sees the next decade as a new era of expansion for international rail.

Eurostar claims that the research is “the most comprehensive assessment of international high-speed rail’s contribution to the UK to date”. It argues that the study proves that Eurostar is “a piece of national infrastructure” which enhances Britain’s economy, develops cultural ties and provides jobs that are well-paid and of high quality.

The Fast Track to Growth report also considered possible future developments. It concluded that by 2035, Eurostar’s contribution to the UK economy will rise to £2.8billion and the number of jobs it supports will rise to 40,000. These projections take into consideration Eurostar’s commitment to invest £1.7 billion in a new fleet of trains.

The first of the new, double-decker Celestia trains is scheduled to enter service in 2031. Once it has the new trains, Eurostar will be able to run direct services from London to Frankfurt and Geneva.

The report sets out its estimate that for every job employed directly by Eurostar, another sixteen jobs are supported. These include jobs in engineering, supply chains, hospitality and tourism. It reckons that economic activity supported by Eurostar generates around £87,500 of gross value added per job. This is around 9% above the UK average.

The report claims that international rail services generate around 500,000 additional visits by tourists to the UK each year, arguing that without Eurostar, these trips would not have taken place. These journeys contribute £370 million to the economy, as tourists spend money on hotels, restaurants and attractions.

In addition, 150,000 business travellers arrive in the UK by rail each year, which adds a further £115 million. The report includes evidence that passengers are switching from plane to train to make journeys to Paris, Amsterdam, Brussels and other destinations. 

Eurostar’s results for 2025, published last month, show a significant increase in journeys between the UK and the Netherlands. The operator is also supporting more disabled passengers to travel on its services.

“For Eurostar, travel is about much more than transport. Throughout history, better connections have created stronger economies, greater innovation and deeper understanding between people. Rail has a unique ability to bring cities closer together while offering a journey that is productive, comfortable and sustainable from city centre to city centre. Connection creates opportunity and growth. 

“This research shows what Eurostar already delivers – and why international rail is worth investing in for the future. The UK now needs a bold vision to match the private investment on the table – more depot capacity, a bold expansion of St Pancras and a seamless border. Now is the time to act to ensure Britain plays a leading role in Europe’s high-speed rail future.”  

Gwendoline Cazenave, CEO of Eurostar