The Taxi Centre marks 25 years as first customer returns ahead of planned premises move
- Perry Richardson
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
The Taxi Centre, a Glasgow-based supplier of taxi and private hire vehicles, has marked 25 years supporting drivers across the UK as it prepares to move to new premises.
Founded in 2001, the company has grown into one of the sector’s best-known vehicle specialists, supplying cars, financing and aftercare services to taxi and private hire drivers nationwide. Over the past quarter century, the firm says it has delivered more than 30,000 vehicles to drivers across the country.
Glasgow-based taxi vehicle supplier celebrates milestone with long-standing customer while preparing to relocate operations.
The anniversary was marked by a visit from the dealership’s first customers, Alpha Taxis co-owners Thomas and Margaret McGarrell. The pair returned to The Taxi Centre to celebrate the milestone as the company reflects on more than two decades of trading within the industry.
Thomas and Margaret McGarrell originally purchased a Skoda Octavia from the business in 2001 when it first opened. The couple have continued to update their fleet through the dealership in the years since, most recently collecting the latest model in January 2026.
During its expansion, The Taxi Centre has broadened its vehicle offering to include a range of models suited to both taxi and private hire operators. Options now span traditional saloon vehicles through to newer hybrid and fully electric models as drivers adapt to tightening emissions requirements and operating costs.
The company has also established manufacturer partnerships within the industry. It serves as the official sales and aftersales partner for the London Electric Vehicle Company in Scotland and North East England, supplying and maintaining the TX electric black cab used by licensed taxi drivers.
The Taxi Centre branch manager, Stephen Porter, who has been with the company since its founding, said: “Reaching 25 years is a moment that makes you look back at the drivers who put their trust in us, and it’s amazing to have our first customers back with us to mark this milestone.
“Some were just starting out when they first walked through the door, and we’ve seen them build entire careers behind the wheel. Being part of that journey has been a privilege.
“The industry has changed a lot since 2001, with new technologies, regulations and expectations, but drivers still want the same thing: someone who understands the job and can help them find the right vehicle. That’s what has kept us going for a quarter of a century.
“Our next chapter starts very soon, as we move to a new dealership just 80 metres away, which will support us to deliver the very best service to our customers as the automotive industry continues to evolve.”
Margaret McGarrell, co-owner of Alpha Taxis and The Taxi Centre’s first customer, said: “It’s been wonderful to be part of the celebrations. The team here has supported us since they opened, and have helped us to grow and serve our customers as vehicles, laws and customers’ demands have changed. They feel like an extended part of the Alpha Taxis team in many ways.”
Stephen added: “We are fortunate to feel part of the taxi driver community; supporting charity drive-outs for children, as well as helping drivers to navigate the many changes in regulations.
“It’s a very rewarding job, and after 25 years in business, we’re proud to be here helping the next generation of drivers get from A to B.”
