Uber launch FOUR new ‘Local Cab’ locations in England and Scotland
Uber has today announced the launch of FOUR new ‘Local Cab‘ locations which will enable passengers in the regions to book a trip with a local taxi company via the Uber app for the first time.
Following a pilot of Local Cab earlier this year, which saw launches in six towns and cities across the UK, Uber is now extending the service to other areas of the country.
The four locations now able to use the Local Cab option are Northampton, Aylesbury, Stranraer and Dumfries. The launch in Stranraer and Dumfries represents the first Local Cab services in Scotland.
Anyone opening the Uber app in the regions will be presented with the Local Cab option, which connects them with local taxi firm.
Northampton’s Amber Cars, Aylesbury’s Jet Taxis and Stranraer’s and Dumfries’ McLeans Taxis have all joined the Local Cab operator network respectively.
In order to meet growing demand for trips and extend the use of its app beyond the 40 UK towns and cities in which it currently operates, Uber is looking to work with local operators.
Uber’s app integrates with Autocab’s iGo network, which has the potential to connect passengers with 80,000 private hire and taxi drivers in the UK. The Local Cab pilot marked the first time the two technology companies have worked together since Uber reached an agreement to acquire Autocab in August 2020.
William McLean, Director at McLeans Taxis, said: “We’re proud to bring Local Cab to the people of Dumfries. This provides another way for customers to book with us – and for anyone visiting Dumfries that already uses the Uber app, Local Cab will make it easy for them to book a ride with a local operator.”
Ash Kebriti, UK General Manager, Uber, said: “The Local Cab pilot has proved to be a success for local operators, riders and local economies. Local operators have seen increased demand for trips and are now actively recruiting new drivers, which is having a positive impact on the local economy. We are now excited to roll the product out to more towns and cities across the UK.”