TOP TAXI: Freenow opens search for London’s top black cab drivers
- Perry Richardson
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Freenow by Lyft has opened nominations for a London-focused driver recognition event aimed at celebrating black cab drivers who delivered outstanding service to passengers and communities during 2025.
The company said the event will recognise drivers across three award categories, covering operational performance, long-term service and wider community contribution.
The initiative is positioned as part of Freenow by Lyft’s ongoing engagement with the licensed taxi trade in the capital, where it operates what it describes as London’s largest black cab booking app.
The Driver of the Year award will be based on a combination of trip volume, customer satisfaction and consistency over the year. A Legacy Driver award will recognise those who have been active on the platform for the longest period, reflecting sustained participation in the app-based black cab market.
Event will recognise service excellence and community contribution among black cab drivers
A third category, titled Driver’s Driver, is intended to highlight community-focused work beyond core driving activity. Drivers are able to nominate themselves or colleagues, with the award aimed at recognising contributions that have delivered tangible social benefit.
Nominations opened this week and will close on 4 February. Freenow by Lyft said eligible drivers have been invited to submit applications by responding to a call for entries distributed by email.
The recognition event is scheduled to take place on 12 February. Winners will receive a certificate and a prize, with the company framing the awards as acknowledgement of both professional standards and community engagement.
Previous recognition initiatives run by Freenow by Lyft have highlighted drivers for activities including delivering food parcels to vulnerable residents, providing first aid and medical assistance, transporting rough sleepers to shelters free of charge, and supporting vaccination initiatives for elderly people.
For the black cab sector, the awards come amid continued pressure on earnings and operating costs, with operators and platforms increasingly emphasising service quality and social value as part of their positioning in London’s regulated taxi market.
Danny O’Gorman, General Manager at Freenow by Lyft UK, said: "Black cab drivers are the backbone of our cities, often stepping up as unsung heroes for their communities. This celebration is a powerful testament to their dedication and we are not only recognising the exceptional service on the road, but genuine acts of courage and compassion. Freenow is immensely proud to champion these incredible professionals and host a celebration worthy of their contribution."
