Apparently, there is a shortage of taxis around the UK to deal with customer demand but what are the reasons for this?

Well, it probably will not come as a surprise to taxi drivers when we say that a major reason is due to the pandemic. Not long after the coronavirus arrived in the UK the likes of pubs, restaurants, clubs, cinemas and theatres were closed to hopefully help reduce the spread of COVID-19. As a result, taxi firms lost a significant amount of business as they were not ferrying passengers to and from such venues.

In addition, many people were encouraged to work from home meaning that they did not need a taxi to get them to the likes of the station to catch a train. Furthermore, the travel industry came to a halt meaning that people were not booking a taxi for 3.00 am to get to the airport to catch a flight out of the UK at 6.00 am.

Although the situation has improved considerably with people now going out on an evening, going back to work and jetting off overseas on holiday, many taxi drivers left the industry during the pandemic and some found alternative work. Some of those people have possibly decided that they will continue with their new employment rather than return to the taxi industry thus meaning there is a shortage of taxi drivers.

Another reason may be that some of those people wanting to become taxi drivers are facing delays in getting the appropriate licenses.

It is good news for existing taxi drivers with many now possibly being very busy but perhaps not so good for some customers who may have to wait a significant amount of time for a taxi.

If you are considering becoming a taxi driver then now may be a good time to consider doing so. However, you may wish to undertake your own due diligence before committing yourself.