the greatest transport revolution since…?
October 31st, 2005
It’s been a long time coming, but today Stagecoach announced the launch of megatrain.com.
Following a similar model to their low-cost intercity bus service, they will sell seats on less popular trains from just £1. They will initially operate this model using a couple of services, operated by South West Trains from London to Southampton and Portsmouth.
They will essentially just sell space on regular trains, however apparently megatrain customers will travel in a different part of the train. Given that average load factors on trains in the UK are very poor indeed, I think this is a very wise move. There is space on these trains to sell, so they might as well sell it for less money and fill the services up. It works for the low-cost airlines, and it could work for the UK rail network.
It is perhaps interesting to note that it is unlikely that a system like this will be rolled out nationwide, although we may see other operators copying this innovative move. Stagecoach does also have a 49% holding in Virgin Trains, and also owns..umm.. Island Line.
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