Moving forward, together
An update from your FREE NOW driver team
Over the past decade, our trade has changed beyond recognition, and will keep changing over the coming years. This continues to present us with challenges and opportunities, and the ways in which we respond are always determined by how best we can support drivers and passengers.
Even before COVID-19 transformed the ways in which we live, work and socialise, consumer expectations were changing, and it was becoming increasingly difficult to convince younger generations of Londoners to download a black cab only app. The current pandemic has further compounded this.
Once lockdowns are lifted, there will be a new normal in the way people move around cities - we want to set the foundation now, so that our unique offering will give more flexibility and choice to passengers as well as more business for you.
As a result, we’re announcing today that we are merging with our sister company, Kapten, which has grown rapidly since it launched in London last year. From this summer, we are joining forces to offer the best possible service to passengers under the FREE NOW brand. This will lead to an increase of demand on the platform and thereby additional jobs for drivers following a time of real hardship for everyone.
Here’s what this means for black cab drivers:
You will be visible to 1.5 million new passengers - meaning more work for you.
Black cab users will always see black cabs first.
More users than ever will see a black cab option, where before they wouldn’t.
We know that 60% of Londoners have at least two e-hailing apps on their phones. With many passengers already using both black cab and PHV apps, we can make life simpler for them by bringing them onto one platform. In the last few months, we have also seen how the industry has come together to help in the crisis, from helping to get vital NHS staff to hospitals, to delivering essential supplies to the vulnerable.
We know that this might raise some questions, but in truth, other black cab apps have been offering both black cabs and private hire vehicles under the guise of “business” accounts for almost 5 years. We want to be open and honest with you, which is why we are letting you know about these changes in advance.
Our roots are with the iconic black cabs of London, and more than any other app, we understand how important you are to London’s heritage and culture. Black Cabs are incredibly important to the past, present and future of the capital and we are looking forward to taking this next step on the journey with you.
Thanks,
Your FREE NOW Driver team
