Introduction
Eurostar is the high-speed train service that links London St Pancras International, Ebbsfleet International, Ashford International, Paris, Brussels, Lille, Calais, Disneyland Paris and the French Alps.
Eurostar was established in 1994 as a partnership between three railways companies, SNCF, SNCB and LCR (London Rail and Continental Railways). In 2010 it became a single, unified corporate entirely owned by three shareholders, SNCF, SNCB and LCR.
Since 1994 Eurostar has carried more than 150 million passengers between London and mainland Europe
Opportunity
Eurostar recently requested a proposal to implement a Digital Signage network that met certain criteria, including the ability to display high-definition content, to create memorable experiences for passengers as part of a stations improvement programme.
Eurostar appointed a project management company to coordinate the project who in turn selected Solutions AV to install and commission a series of AV displays, powered by Signagelive at London St Pancras International and Brussels Gare du Midi.
The Solution
The Digital Signage solution comprises more than 60 commercial grade AV screens, ranging in size from 22“ to 55”. These have been installed in ticket offices, on concourse and in the Business Premier lounge to display a variety of content types and formats, including promotional videos about Eurostar destinations, way-finding, check-in information, and real-time travel updates.
The new solution includes a Samsung video wall at St Pancras International comprising 12 x 55” screens in landscape configuration, to deliver a 1080 x 23040 pixel digital canvas. The individual screens, which are managed using Signagelive technology, have been fully synchronised on the local area networks to display high definition content about key destinations and passenger experiences at different European cities, creating a seamless and stunning visual experience.
Why Signagelive?
Signagelive’s cloud-based solution has provided Eurostar with a centralised facility to run and manage its Digital Signage network. Content can be updated via a secure web interface to display service and travel notifications to keep passengers informed at all times about train services and their onward journey. Displayed content is uploaded and managed on Signagelive’s cloud platform using its intuitive CMS, removing the need for onsite storage servers.
Signagelive’s software supports cross-platform functionality and multiple content formats, including ultra-high definition content in HD formats. Content can be updated remotely via any device, making implementation simple and straightforward. Signagelive’s software also comprises a number of advanced features, including social media integration and QR code support, which can be used to enhance passenger engagement.
“Signagelive have been helpful throughout the implementation process and have been receptive to our suggestions and ideas at all times. I really like the intuitive nature of their CMS, which has made deployment simple and the advanced scheduling tool is particularly useful, especially for displaying time-sensitive operational or service-related content.”
Roland Gilliam, Stations Change Manager for Eurostar
The Future
Future phases of the improvement programme include refurbishing the remaining business lounges at London St Pancras and Paris Nord, followed by station-wide improvements at Lille-Europe to handle greater passenger volumes. All refurbishments involve the deployment of Signagelive-powered Digital Signage applications.
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