Uber and AA recovery join forces for driver discount packages

AA Plc has announced a partnership with ride-sharing firm Uber for roadside and Service Maintenance and Repair in the UK.

The new joint campaign will see Uber drivers given access to MOTs, repairs and maintenance through the AA's Service Maintenance and Repair (SMR) platform and capabilities.

Uber drivers in 40 UK cities will also have access to the AA roadside assistance.

AA will be integrated into the Uber driver app, making technology the heart of the partnership. 

AA said that Services Maintenance and Repair will become an increasing area of focus for them:

“The SMR market plays a key role in addressing a driver’s planned and unplanned needs and represents a significant opportunity for the AA to grow new revenue streams without incurring substantial capital expenditure.

“The AA and Uber have today launched a new three-year partnership, enabling more than 65,000 licensed private-hire drivers in 40 UK cities, access to award-winning breakdown cover as well as the opportunity to book discounted services, maintenance and repairs (SMR) in over 1,000 garages through the AA’s SMR Platform.”

As well as providing access to service, repairs and maintenance, the Uber partnership is completely digital as drivers will make all requests for assistance through their existing Uber Driver app. 

This is part of a new Uber Pro loyalty programme, which recognises drivers for their commitment.

This deal is a first for the AA in combining roadside assistance with vehicle servicing and underpins its intention to digitalise its offering to businesses and customers. 

It is also a reflection of the AA’s key strategic direction, which they say puts service innovation and data at the heart of what they do by;

• “Creating industry leading, cutting-edge B2B partnerships

• Delivering world class customer service

• Investing more than any other provider in technology and people

• Developing connected and integrated Roadside propositions and new data services

• Enhancing our leading position as the B2B partner of choice.”

Simon Breakwell, AA Chief Executive Officer, says: “The AA is putting Service and Innovation at the heart of what we do. This unique cutting-edge partnership combines those two elements.

“Our partnership with Uber goes beyond our core breakdown offering and into whole vehicle cover with a comprehensive service, maintenance and repair package for Uber drivers.

“We are making significant progress on our strategic plan and are building operational momentum across the AA, including our strategic partnership with Admiral as well as the launch of Smart Breakdown in Q4. The Uber partnership gives us more momentum.” 

Image (Remixed): Source; Taxipoint & AA plc