" Optimum+ finds its customers ”, says Benjamin Huteau, director of the TGV Inoui Sud-Est route, who this week gave an initial assessment of this new class, launched exclusively at the start of January on the Paris–Lyon route. An improved version of the Optimum class, which replaced Business 1ère, Optimum+ is available on the 19 daily return journeys between Paris and the capital of Gaul, a key route on which 40% of passengers travel for business purposes. The SNCF has not, to date, planned to extend this specific service to another route, such as Paris-Bordeaux, for example, where business travellers are also very much in evidence on board its TGVs.
A product still seeking recognition
" Attendance for the Optimum+ class is picking up. We're pretty much where we wanted to be in terms of objectives, he confided. While the occupancy rate is good, the satisfaction rate is excellent. », added the manager without giving a figure. SNCF nevertheless acknowledges that the profile of this class still needs to be raised with businesses and business travel agencies. « Optimum+ tickets are easily bookable via all distribution tools, including our SNCF Connect platform.recalls Benjamin Huteau. We just need to convince some more companies of the good value for money of this service. ".
The advantage of breakfast, and especially lunch or dinner served in its place, is particularly highlighted by SNCF Voyageurs. “ It is real comfort and a time-saver for the passenger, but also an advantage for the company which has a single transaction for the train and the meal. This avoids processing an additional expense claim. " he insists the TGV Inoui manager for the South-East line.
Minor adaptations at the margins
Although the product has been well received by Optimum+ passengers, SNCF has nevertheless made several minor adjustments. In addition to the new card offered since May 4th, Newrest, which provides the catering service, has changed its supplier for dairy products such as butter and yogurts. The afternoon snack is also a little more generous. The management of the onboard refrigerators has also been improved to allow for ideal storage of the meal trays. The price, however, has not changed, with a one-way journey in Optimum+ still offered at €180 (compared to €160 for a Flex 1ère ticket), a price that can drop to €108 for customers holding a Liberté card.
New TGV Inoui lounges at Paris and Lyon Part-Dieu
In addition to the restored seating and the quiet environment of this carriage for working or resting, SNCF highlights the other services linked to an Optimum+ ticket, such as its complete and free flexibility, a dedicated customer service, and access to the Grand Voyageur Le Club TGV Inoui lounges. These lounges, relocated near the departure platforms at Lyon Part-Dieu and situated between Halls 1 and 2 at Paris Gare-Lyon, are brand new to offer business travellers a premium and exclusive service for their entire journey between Paris and Lyon, a route on which SNCF is now challenged by Trenitalia's Frecciarossa trains.
