It is no secret that taxi services as such as Bolt and Uber have increased in popularity, but what affect has this had on Salford’s cab industry?
Owen Hewton worked for the Hackney carriages for 12 years, he quit due to not making enough income. He said: “I was struggling when I was there four years ago, it is even worse now, even less people getting in.”
Stewart Ryan is one of the Directors at Taxi Transfers Limited. He has seen the first fall in income in 2010, when Salford City Council deregulated the Hackney carriage industry. This meant profits fell overnight as the number of taxi’s rose from 79 to 105, with still only two ranks to operate from (Eccles and Salford Precinct).
The second fall in income arrived when Uber came to town. He said: “They’ve taken a massive trade off the taxis; they do what they want and don’t play by the rules.”
Hackney black cab prices are governed by the council. Whilst prices have risen in the last two months, Stuart said they try and stay as low as possible, in order to retain customer loyalty.
Holly Flanagan uses taxis every day. Her nearest bus leaves every hour and falls out of school times, leaving her with no option but a taxi. The last few months has meant she has had to cut back on luxuries but getting the children to school on time is essential.
After noticing Uber’s surge pricing at school times, she’s returned to using the black cabs. She said: “My normal route was 5/6 pound and now it’s like 8/9 pound, and even Ubers are often £11.
“Black cabs have gone up around £1/1.50, so not as bad in comparison.”
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