KIPPER SEASON: January work levels divide taxi drivers as regional demand pulls in different directions
- Perry Richardson
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Taxi drivers across the UK have reported sharply contrasting trading conditions this January, according to feedback gathered by TaxiPoint, highlighting how regional demand, operating models and local market pressures continue to shape earnings at street level.
Several drivers described January as one of their strongest on record. Operators in parts of Manchester, South Wales and parts of Scotland reported solid demand, particularly where drivers were willing to work longer hours, take radio jobs or focus on airport transfers. Some respondents went as far as calling it their busiest January ever, with one operator reporting year on year growth of around 10 percent and expanding both fleet size and driver numbers.
Airport work emerged as a recurring theme among those reporting a stronger month. Drivers in rural and coastal areas, including North Norfolk, said steady airport transfers and regular local customers helped stabilise income during what is traditionally a quieter post Christmas period. Others noted that January often outperforms December once seasonal spending pressures ease.
However, a significant number of drivers painted a bleaker picture. Operators in towns including Grimsby, Lancaster, Derby and Brighton described the month as slow or ‘dismal’, with some saying it was the worst January they had experienced in decades. Weekend work was repeatedly highlighted as particularly weak, with several drivers pointing to reduced nightlife spending and fewer young passengers travelling.
Industry feedback suggests a mixed start to the year, with strong pockets of demand offset by sharp slowdowns elsewhere
Cross border and out of town licensing was also cited as a contributing factor in quieter markets. Drivers in Barnsley, Lancaster and Wiltshire said increased competition from vehicles licensed elsewhere was diluting local work, even where the overall number of taxis operating had fallen.
Others reported little change either way, describing January as broadly in line with previous years. Several drivers said that without detailed comparisons of job volumes, the month felt marginally busier but not dramatically different. A number summed up trading conditions simply as “the same” or “it’s been ok”.
The mixed feedback highlights the fragmented nature of the taxi market at the start of 2026. While some regions appear to be benefiting from good levels of contract work, airport demand and consolidation among local firms, others continue to struggle with rising costs, shifting passenger habits and increased competition from out-of-area workers. For many drivers, January remains a month where outcomes depend heavily on location, working patterns and the ability to adapt.
