13 May 2015

Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439

ISSUE 760 13 May 2015

LONDON BRACED FOR POST-ELECTION BOOM?

NEW AD FORMATHITS TOP SPOT

Feeling post-election overload yet? Well guess what – there’s another one in less than a year, and the results of that one are likely to have an even bigger impact on the London taxi trade.The London Mayoral Election is scheduled for 5 May 2016, so by this time next year you’ll have voted for the new Mayor of London. Regardless of who’s in the hotseat, one thing is certain; being a London taxi driver means you’ll still have to work hard if you rely on your fare takings for a decent living. Having said that, most commentators agree that Britain is now emerging from recession, so maybe the new Mayor will lead London through a period of boom where people have more money to spend – on taxis amongst other things?

For most of us though, we need to make a living today, never mind in a years’ time. So what can you do to make sure you get your fair share of the business that’s out there right now? Here are five top tips:

THINK LIKE A PUNTEROnce a cabbie, always a cabbie – even when you’re off duty. But when you’re not behind the wheel, you’re a member of the general public. It’s now an undeniable fact that the public pay for more with a card than they do with cash. If you want their money, you need to take card payments. Verifone card payment solutions are already in over 63,000 taxis worldwide.

EARN YOUR TIPSLondon cabbies are the best in the world. Even if it’s a slow day, keep smiling and make sure you maintain those high standards – it’ll mean more tips! If you have a Verifone card machine, it will automatically prompt your passengers to add a tip when paying by card, and you keep every penny of it, along with every penny of the metered fare.

MAKE MONEY WHILST YOU’RE ASLEEPYour taxi is not only your ‘office’ and the best way to travel around town, it’s also a mobile billboard. By carrying advertising, you’ll be earning even when you’re asleep. Verifone Media have traditional livery and superside opportunities for owner-drivers and fleets.

EMBRACE THE DIGITAL AGERoof-mounted digital screens are already familiar on taxis in London. Advertisers love digital media. Everything has gone digital, from huge billboards like the ones on the Hammersmith flyover to escalator ad panels on the Underground. DigitalTops for TX4 cabs are worth £9,000 over 5 years to owner-drivers!

CUT YOUR OVERHEADSThe cost of your overheads can make a big dent in your takings. Shop around for the best insurance, diesel, tyre and servicing deals. Verifone are currently running a great meter deal. It’s absolutely free for a year, then £180 in total for the next two years, meaning an average of £60 per year over three years.

Verifone Media are winning the battle for digital space in London, and that’s good news for drivers. DigitalTops – the screens mounted on top of TX4 taxis – are taking on other digital media and winning back the taxi advertising cash that was being lost to new digital platforms. Verifone are offering drivers a whopping £9,000 to have a DigitalTop fitted before reaching the TfL limit of 1000 cabs.TfL have not only limited the number of cabs that can carry the units, they also insist that the cabs carry no other form of advertising. That suits a lot of TX4 owners who would rather not have vinyl ads on their cabs, but who welcome the additional revenue advertising generates.Sadeek Rahman of Verifone also highlights other benefits of the DigitalTops. “The ads are sent to the units using the latest wireless technology, so drivers don’t need to come in to have their ads changed. Once the unit’s fitted, there shouldn’t be any down time. And our units are fully TfL compliant, meaning taxis carrying them can go anywhere. The unit doesn’t affect access to any public roads or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom like at Stratford or Euston.”Verifone are now taking bookings for DigitalTops campaigns from advertisers, and are keen to talk to any TX4 owners who are interested in having a unit fitted (and would like an extra £9,000).

and superside opportunities for owner-drivers and fleets.

EMBRACE THE DIGITAL AGERoof-mounted digital screens are already familiar on taxis in London. Advertisers love digital media. Everything has gone digital, from huge billboards like the ones on the Hammersmith flyover to escalator ad panels on the Underground. DigitalTops for TX4 cabs are worth £9,000 over 5 years to

CUT YOUR OVERHEADSThe cost of your overheads can make a big dent in your takings. Shop around for the best insurance, diesel, tyre and servicing deals. Verifone are currently running a great meter deal. It’s absolutely free for a year, then £180 in total for the next two years, meaning an average of £60 per year over three years.

advertising generates.Sadeek Rahman of Verifone also highlights other benefits of the DigitalTops. “The ads are sent to the units using the latest wireless technology, so drivers don’t need to come in to have their ads changed. Once the unit’s fitted, there shouldn’t be any down time. And our units are fully TfL compliant, meaning taxis carrying them can go anywhere. The unit doesn’t affect access to any public roads or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom like at Stratford or Euston.”Verifone are now taking bookings for DigitalTops campaigns from advertisers, and are keen to talk to any TX4 owners who are interested in having a unit fitted (and would like an extra £9,000).

or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom like at Stratford or Euston.”Verifone are now taking bookings for DigitalTops campaigns from advertisers, and are keen to talk to any TX4 owners who are interested in having a unit fitted (and would like an extra £9,000).

DigitalTops TMDigitalTops TM

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CARD PAYMENT SYSTEMS

CAN I PAY BY CARD?88% OF PASSENGERS WANT THE OPTION TO PAY BY CARD IN YOUR TAXI Verifone pioneered payment technology for taxis. With unmatched expertise and relentless support, we now help over 6000 London cabbies take card payments from their passengers.

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13 May 2015 13 May 2015

Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439 Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)

Verifone have been a supplier of the Microtax taximeter for a year now and are celebrating the first birthday of their partnership with Hale.

Hale meters are integrated in the VeriFone VTS card payment solution, although both products are available separately. Drivers can rent their meter through Verifone for just £180 including VAT over two years, although for new VTS card payment customers, the meter is completely free for the first year.

Hale now operate in over 40 countries. Their award-winning meters have been

available in the UK for some time, and the latest Hale MCT-06 model will already be familiar to many drivers.

Simon Pancutt (above right) of VeriFone is delighted to be offering this service to fleets and drivers. “A year down the line, we’re now seeing drivers coming to the end of their free first year meter rental, and are signing up for our great two year deal.”To reserve your Hale meter, call Verifone today on 0333 666 1000.

METERS RUNNING FOR A YEAR AT VERIFONE

Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on the day; Charlton, Spurs, Arsenal, West Ham, Millwall…and of course Man Utd were all represented!

Who doesn’t like chocolate? Judging by the expression on their faces, the lucky passengers who were presented with a free bar of Cadburys chocolate certainly do.

As part of the recent Cadburys livery taxi

campaign run by Verifone Media in London, drivers were given cases full of chocolate, and gave over 5000 bars out to passengers during the campaign.

Cadburys were promoting a range of Dairy Milk products, some firm favourites and some tasty new ones. The taxis were wrapped in striking purple graphics, each one promoting one of seven varieties of Dairy Milk; Fruit & Nut, Chips Ahoy, Oreo, Whole Nut, Caramel, Daim and Original.

According to one driver, it was more difficult to give chocolate away than it was doing the Knowledge!

WHERE’S THE CATCH?

PASSENGER ADMIN CHARGESThese systems all apply a 10% passenger admin charge when fares are paid by any of the major debit or credit cards, including AmEx. This is not deducted from the metered fare or any tips – all that money goes directly to the driver. The admin charge is what the passenger pays on top of the fare, and it is this money that is shared between the service provider and card issuer (Visa, MasterCard, Amex etc).

The Verifone VTS system has no minimum threshold or hidden charges, and their Victory system* has an easy-to-meet target of £150 total value of card transactions per month (ie: £15 in passenger admin charges). This helps to pay for the Victory hardware, network SIM, software, processing and driver support back-up, as well as the share taken by the card issuer. For Victory customers, if monthly admins are less than £15, the shortfall is paid by the driver. For example, if only £9 in admins is generated in one month, that’s a £6 + VAT shortfall.

CAN A FREE LUNCH REALLY BE FREE?The ‘free’ card payment facility from Taxiworld comes at a price. It’s only free if you sign up for a meter, and that will cost you £162 per year. By contrast, the Verifone VTS solution is not tied in to any other deals so it really is free - always. In fact,

you even get a genuinely free Hale Microtax 06 meter for a year with a Verifone VTS system too, and Verifone only charge £90 a year meter rental thereafter assuming you choose to keep it longer! Even the Verifone Victory handheld system is free if you take £150 in card fares in the month.

The Verifone VTS Card Payment System costs drivers nothing, fares are transferred three times a week and you get a full year’s meter rental free. For Verifone Victory drivers (ideal if you’re renting or swap cabs regularly) there are also no charges if you meet the monthly target. If you use Victory and generate than less than £15 in admin charges in a month, the most you’ll pay is £15.

With Taxiworld, you’ll have to pay £162 every year for your meter in order to get the ‘free’ card payment system regardless of how many card fares you take, you’ll have to wait a whole week to be paid as credits are only transferred every seven days (unless you want to pay to get them more often), but you do get Google Maps and SatNav in case you get lost and don’t have a smart phone.

DO PASSENGERS WANT TO PAY BY CARD?Kofi Okwsu-Agyei (below) has been taking card fares for three years now, and his passengers are

happy to see he takes cards. Many of his fares are around £30 or £40, and he has taken a lot of them - over 2200 to be precise!

PLAYING THE WILD CARDMany apps provide card payment facilities too, but their functionality and banking code/PCI/TfL compliance is often compromised - for example, not all transaction types can be processed. TfL’s reports that more than 600 million contactless journeys were made in just six months, so a card solution that can’t take contactless payments is not really a solution at all. It’s also possible that card payments will be made mandatory soon, and that app and smart phone systems will not be allowed. Even the popular Verifone Victory handheld solution may be affected if a fixed solution is mandated, but Verifone state that in any eventuality, conversion to a fully compliant VTS system will be offered FREE to all Victory customers.For more information about Verifone card payment solutions, call 0333 666 1000 or visit www.verifonetaxi.co.uk.

HOW TO MAKE A PASSENGERS DAY…

They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, so when you see something for nothing, it’s worth a closer look. Card payment solutions for taxi drivers can be a minefield of costs, including some that are not easy to spot at a glance. We compared two leading card payment service providers - Verifone and Taxiworld - and found that the dreaded T&Cs

needn’t be so dreadful if you choose wisely.We checked whether or not the systems were able to take the full range of card transactions, whether there were any rental, insurance or payment processing charges, whether there were fixed installation or handheld options, what other conditions might apply and what added-value options were available.

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)

Hale meters are integrated in the VeriFone VTS card payment solution, although both products are available separately. Drivers can rent their meter through Verifone for just £180 including VAT over two years, although for new VTS card payment customers, the meter is completely free for the first year.

Hale now operate in over 40 countries. Their award-winning meters have been

Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help

As part of the recent Cadburys livery taxi

campaign run by Verifone Media in campaign run by Verifone Media in London, drivers were given cases full of chocolate, and gave over 5000 bars out to passengers during the campaign.

Cadburys were promoting a range of Dairy Milk products, some firm favourites and some tasty new ones. The taxis were wrapped in striking purple graphics, each one promoting one of seven varieties of Dairy Milk; Fruit & Nut, Chips Ahoy, Oreo, Whole Nut, Caramel, Daim and Original.

According to one driver, it was more difficult to give chocolate away than it was doing the Knowledge!

celebrating the first birthday of their

Hale meters are integrated in the

campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on the day; Charlton, Spurs, Arsenal, West Ham, Millwall…and of course Man Utd were all represented!

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on

campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on the day; Charlton, Spurs, Arsenal, West Ham, Millwall…and of course Man Utd

With Taxiworld, you’ll have to pay £162 every year for your meter in order to get the ‘free’ card payment system regardless of how many card fares you take, you’ll have to wait a whole week to be paid as credits are only transferred every seven days (unless you want to pay to get them more often), but you do get Google Maps and SatNav in case you get lost

DO PASSENGERS WANT TO PAY BY CARD?Kofi Okwsu-Agyei (below) has been taking card

systems will not be allowed. Even the popular Verifone Victory handheld solution may be affected if a fixed solution is mandated, but Verifone state that in any eventuality, conversion to a fully compliant VTS system will be offered FREE to all Victory customers.For more information about Verifone card payment solutions, call 0333 666 1000 or visit www.verifonetaxi.co.uk.

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Taxi Loans 725.indd 1 23/01/2014 14:13:33

ISSUE 760 13 May 2015

www.taxiglobe.info

Why settle for anything less, when you can have London’s leading Black Cab Insurance Broker?0208 127 8420 | QUOTAX.NET

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RETURN OF THE LIBERATORSTaxis take war veterans to

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MAGICAL TAXI TOUR COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN WINS AWARD see page 6

Page 2 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439

www.warnersgroup.co.ukWest Street, Bourne,Lincolnshire PE10 9PH

EDITORIALEditor: S. GoodwinTel: 01707 885439

taxiglobeeditor@warnersgroup.co.uk

DISPLAY & CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Jayne Notley Group Sales Manager

Tel: 01778 391189jaynen@warnersgroup.co.uk

PUBLISHERSimon Moody

DISTRIBUTIONDND Transport Services Ltd.

Tel 01707 272305

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ACCOUNTS & CREDIT CONTROLTel: 01778 391023

SUBSCRIPTIONSTo ensure you get a copy of Taxi Globe for

12 months, please send a cheque or postal order, made payable to Warners Group

Publication, for £20 inclusive of VAT and post and packing in the UK to:

Taxi Globe Subscriptions,West Street, Bourne,

Lincolnshire PE10 9PH

Taxi Globe has been carefully prepared, but articles are published without the responsibility on the part of the publishers or authors for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any view, information or advice included therein. The publishers accept no responsibility for the views or

opinions expressed by contributors. Articles published in Taxi Globe do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers, nor can the publishers or authors accept any

responsibility for any claims made by the advertisers.

Screens have been installed at Heathrow Terminal 2 showing

passengers live price and journey time comparisons between taxis and the airport’s train service to central London. The screens - a world first - combine real-time traffic, weather and Heathrow Express train service information into one user-friendly data feed, or ‘journey comparison generator,’ at the terminal’s baggage reclaim zone.

Fraser Brown, Heathrow Express director, said: “The aim of the ‘journey comparison generator’ is to enable Heathrow passengers to get into London as speedily, easily and cheaply as possible. By harnessing many different sources of real-time data into one we are helping make this happen. Research shows Heathrow Express trains are

three times faster than taxis and a quarter of the price. These screens show how that comparison varies minute to minute depending on traffic, weather and time of day.”

This summer the screens at each baggage carousel will be translated to the main language - Italian, Russian etc - of people on the arriving flight, and later in the year they will be installed across Heathrow’s Terminals 3 and 5. The project was jointly devised and created by Heathrow Express, JCDecaux Airport UK, which sells media space; and digital agency DOOH.com, which links digital networks.

Alan Sullivan, Managing Director at JCDecaux Airport, said: “We are delighted to be such an integral part of this world-first proposition that has the ability to transform how

brands communicate to passengers as well as enhance travellers’ airport experiences.” DOOH.com tackled the complex task of bringing together five different layers of real-time data feeds, including GPS traffic information used in TomTom car satnavs, Google, Highways Agency, the Met Office and timetable information from Heathrow Express.

SMART SCREENS INSTALLED AT HEATHROW TERMINALS

The London Black Cab is an icon of the capital

and guarantees a level of safety second to none. The RMT believes that the “Knowledge of London” and the hard-earned right to ply for hire are intrinsically linked. The exclusive methods of immediate hiring that are ranking and hailing must be protected in the face of recent technological developments.

TfL’s position on engagement with the licensed Taxi trade when making policy, is one of consultation and NOT negotiation.

For a two tier system to continue to operate in London where the future of the Taxi trade is assured it is paramount that:-• Plying for Hire must be

defined in statute and not revoked.

• Valuable Taxi case law must not be repealed.

• Protect the Knowledge – Your right to ply for hire.

• Vehicle distinction is vital - The Black Cab is our Unique Selling Point.

• A fit for purpose and regularly reviewed Taxi Rank strategy and budget for the whole of London.

• Planning permission for satellite offices – Which must include a taxi rank.

• Rickshaws and the like must never have the right to ply for hire or operate on the highway.

• A managed growth of both the taxi and private hire trades.

• Robust enforcement with funding set at a level capable of dealing with the size of both trades.

• Crime statistics and plying for hire offences should be broken down into categories such as Taxi, PHV, and Unlicensed.

• PHVs should not be

permitted to form ranks or wait in advance of bookings outside venues.

• A PHV should always be a PHV and only be

driven by a PHV driver whether working or not.

• Full integration with and negotiation on policy alongside buses trains and planes.

THE LAWNEEDS TO DEFINE

THE LAW AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TOPOLICY AND ENFORCEMENT

FOR A FAIR, FIT FOR PURPOSE, TWO TIER SYSTEM IN THE INTERESTOF THE PUBLIC TO OPERATE AND BE MAINTAINED THIS IS FUNDAMENTAL

SO AS TO“plying for hire”

BY MAKINGCLEAR & FAIRPOLICY FORREGULATING

TAXIS & PRIVATE HIRE

MEANINGFULENFORCEMENT OF

THE LAWFOR THE SCALE OF

LINCENSEES INVLOVED

Provide 100% Clarityin the training of

Officers to carry out

Provide 100% Clarityfor the MO

of both Trades

Which MUST provideadequate funding for Efficient, Effective &

For more information and to support our campaign visit

www.rmtlondontaxi.com

POLICY STATEMENT

13 May 2015 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! Page 3

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RadioTaxis – PAYG Deal

To join call Tracey or Sandra on:020 7272 2626Or Email: drivers@radiotaxis.co.ukVisit our website: www.radiotaxis.co.uk/apply-to-join

More work – better fares – Pay As You Go!� Join free� Another set of eyes & ears� You earn more quickly� Integrated chip & pin� Job bonus scheme

� £5 + VAT per week(equipment rental)

� And 10% + VAT per job

� Fixed subs alternative:£55 + VAT per week

Page 4 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

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Currently available in 32 cities around the world, including London, with more than 20,000 drivers worldwide, GetTaxi is changing its name

to Gett. The company has announced its growth into additional verticals including food, beauty and home services – all essential categories in one simple app. Starting in July, Gett will mean users can simply tap the ‘Gett’ app to get essential things done. Gett’s millions of mobile users in the UK and worldwide will soon be able to use the company’s technology to ‘Gett’ new services: food (including sushi, pizza and wine), beauty (manicures, blow drys and massages) and home services (plumbing, maintenance and cleaning).

High quality, safe transportation services for private and corporate clients is set to remain at the heart of Gett’s business, working exclusively with black cab drivers, part of Gett’s ongoing commitment to black cabs. Gett currently offers fully transparent prices, no minimum fare and a no surge guarantee. It also offers fixed fares to many popular destinations - as well as 24/7 telephone customer service. The company says it is committed to a fair relationship with its drivers, including passing on 100% of tips from customers.

The new products and services will come from carefully screened suppliers within each new category. Although the first new category is yet to be announced, Gett’s advanced technology is being rolled out to prepare for the official global launchthis July 2015. “For the last four years, we’ve been known for getting you professional and safe transportation solution, and soon we will ‘Gett’ you even more,” said Shahar Waiser, Gett CEO & Founder. “Gett is expanding into new verticals - think Gett Pizza, Gett

Sushi, Gett Grocery, Gett Wine, Gett Flowers, Gett Dry Cleaning and Gett Plumber - while of course keeping our popular Gett BlackTaxi with a ‘no surge’ promise and a ‘100% black cab’ guarantee in London as a core of the business. We’ve been working on this strategic technology for the last 12 months, and the coming launch in July will fundamentally change how people consume essential services and products. We will continue to lead in transportation and expand to essential products and services that people use in their everyday lives. We plan to become the first global app you tap to ‘Gett’ all the essential things done. Everyone will use it and no one will remember how they ever coped without it.”

GETTAXI REBRANDS TO GETT

The clampdown on unsafe limos, Operation Kansas, saw Officers from

the RTPC’s Commercial Vehicle Unit, and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) carried out on-the-spot checks in central London on 18th April to crack down on those vehicles putting the public in serious danger by not adhering to strict safety standards.

The results from the weekend clampdown:

• 8 vehicles issued with a prohibition notice for having mechanical defects

• 2 vehicles issued with a prohibition notice for exceeding driver hours• 5 drivers issued with graduated FPNs for exceeding driver hours

Officers also engaged with members of the public to talk to them about public safety and vehicle safety issues.

ROADS AND TRANSPORT POLICING COMMAND CONTINUE TO CRACKDOWN ON UNSAFE LIMOS

Mountview House, home to Radio Taxis, has been sold and so Radio Taxis will be moving to more

modern headquarters in New Southgate, North London. Radio Taxis’ parent company, Mountview House Group, which also operates One Transport, has sold its offices at Mountview House and the move should be completed before the end of August this year. Established in 1953, Radio Taxis moved to Fonthill Mews, renamed Mountview House, in 1990. Since then, the company has

grown, adding Xeta Taxis in 2004 and establishing One Transport, the UK’s first vendor neutral national online ground transportation consolidator, in 2007.

“We are excited to make this step forward to a more modern, high tech and space-efficient location,” said Geoffrey Riesel, CEO of Radio Taxis. “We’ve had a great run in Mountview House, but are looking forward to the improved working environment that our new premises has to offer.”

RADIO TAXIS TO MOVE TO NEW, MODERN HEADQUARTERS THIS SUMMER

13 May 2015 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! Page 5

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Putting the driver first

Page 6 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

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Past Master of The Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers Phil Davis has

been announced as the winner of the City Livery Company Root and Branch Award for 2015. Phil joined the WCHCD in 1990 and was Master during 1997. Well known throughout the trade for heading up the committee which organises the annual Children’s Magical Taxi Tour, Phil has been chairman of this committee since 1994. Phil says he is delighted and honoured to have been given the Award but that the trip is not just his work, but that of everyone else involved, from the committee to the drivers.

To be nominated for the Award, a Liveryman has to have made exceptional contribution to the work of his Livery or the wider Livery which enhances the understanding or profile of the Livery. Phil certainly meets these criteria. The award winner will have demonstrated any or all of the following skills; leadership, innovation, development, creativity, responsibility and generosity. His committee can testify that Phil has all these skills. The judges look, amongst other things, for leadership and personal commitment. All those involved with the Children’s Magical Taxi Tour can testify how much work Phil has undertaken during the years he has been involved; not only in the planning but also during the trip when he is meeting and greeting guests at the Big Breakfast Send Off before donning his high-vis jacket to direct the drivers. Once in his support vehicle he is in constant touch with the other committee members and support vehicles, liaising with both the UK police and the French gendarmes. Then he is directing operations at the fuel stop and on arrival at the Disney resort he is busy directing the parking of cabs. He is extremely busy all weekend and that is why it is rare to find a photograph of Phil at Disney – he does not stand still long enough! Before leaving France, the following yearís dates are booked in with the hotel, and all the fund raising starts again. During the rest of the year he is tireless in his fund raising activities - he can be found on the rank during Wimbledon shaking a bucket, organising the fund raising dinner held each December, as

well as talking to sponsors throughout the year. This year will see Phil cycling to Southend with other Freemen and Liverymen of the WCHCD, all in aid of the Disney trip. An incredible number of children have benefitted from the annual trip – this year will see even more children enjoying a weekend away, bringing the total to well over 5000. The logistics involved in arranging the children, the helpers, the ambulances and support vehicles, not to mention around 100 cabs and drivers each year is the equivalent of a full time job in terms of hours spent organising everything. When asked about the Award, Phil said: “I am really very delighted and surprised to receive this award and know it recognises not just me but the work that my committee and the Company do for sick children. My aim is to put smiles on the faces of these children and I could not attain this goal without their support, and that of many City Livery Companies, to organise the Magical Taxi Tour every year.” EXEMPLARY WORKSThe City Livery Club Root and Branch Award seeks to recognise exemplary works from within the City Livery Companies from individuals who have made a noteworthy contribution to charity and the Livery. The criteria and competition is tough, with many remarkable nominations

coming from across the eclectic range of City Livery Companies. This is only the second such award. Phil’s tireless work on the annual Childrenís Magical Taxi Tour has touched the lives of thousands of children and their families over the past 21 years. The fact he has engaged the support from such a variety of Livery Companies is a testament to his incredible contribution to the City Livery movement and he has always acted without seeking reward or recognition. Malcolm Paice, the current Master of WCHCD said: “As a Livery Company we are very proud to have Phil as a Liveryman and Past Master, but the whole City Livery community should also be proud to have such a remarkable ambassador for the City and its charitable works. I am sure you will all join me in congratulating Past Master Davies on this splendid and well deserved accolade.”NOMINATION SUPPORTPhil Davis’ nomination for the City Livery Club Root and Branch Award was also supported, among others, by letters of praise from a range of Livery Companies and parents of children that have benefitted from his charitable endeavours. The fact that he has engaged support from such a variety of Livery Companies is testament to his incredible contribution to the City Movement and he has always acted without seeking reward or recognition. Malcolm Paice added: “As a Livery Company we are proud to have Phil as a Liveryman and Past Master, but the whole City Livery community should also be proud to have such a remarkable ambassador for the City and its charitable works.”

The 687th Lord Mayor of London is Alderman Alan Yarrow. He said: “Phil has done an amazing job and he fully deserves his Root & Branch Award. ltis a great example of the Livery Companies’ work – work which has gone on, in one form or another, for hundreds of years. I know first-hand that the Livery is stuffed to the gills with people young and old who work tirelessly to help their by raising money, giving time and supporting people. Thank you to everyone involved with this work.”

AWARD FOR PHIL DAVIS CHAIRMAN OF DISNEY ORGANISING COMMITTEE

13 May 2015 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! Page 7

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Page 8 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

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I started leading World War One Walks around Westminster last

year in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great War.

Despite all of the reading and research, and despite all of the statistics of the fallen, which I constantly announced to my groups, it really would take a “Battlefields Tour” of the Somme and Flanders to fully bring it home to me what a catastrophe and futile waste of young lives the First World War really was.

The Westminster Guides and Lecturers Association got in touch with Single Step Tours to organise a trip – and 19 London Guides were picked up by Princess Coaches at various pick-up points in Greater London to head down to the Channel Tunnel for a 4-day inclusive tour of the Western Front.

Peter Jones was our Guide for a memorable and richly rewarding experience that would offer a diverse range of sites and skilfully selected material to keep us all fascinated throughout the length of the jaunt.

Our base for 3 nights was the Holiday Inn at Arras – which was one of the 4 major battle fields chosen to exhume 6 unknown British servicemen, of which one was secretly chosen to be interned in the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey.

We had a full day on the Somme, visiting cemeteries and actual battle sites – and it is the landscape of the terrain which you cannot fully appreciate when reading texts of accounts from the comfort of a sofa.

One particular poignant stop was at Beaumont Hamel where on 1st July 1916 several companies of the Lancashire Fusiliers left the sunken lane to go ëover the topí in the direction of German artillery – and as our group were strolling across a field of dandelions with a song thrush singing tunefully away, Peter explained the carnage that took place on that very killing field we were walking over, towards no man’s land.

There was another moving stop a sculptured Welsh Dragon Memorial overlooks Mametz Wood, where German Prussian Guards artillery bombardment inflicted dreadful numbers of casualties of Welsh soldiers – including a relative of one of our team of guides.

All of the allied cemeteries are kept respectfully well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission – and at the Guillemot Road Cemetery we discovered the headstone of Lieutenant Raymond Asquith, son of the former Prime Minister Herbert Asquith, who was in Number 10 when war was declared.

Peter added a nice balance to the itinerary, with a visit to a German Cemetery, which did not appear to be as well kept, and he showed us a burial plot about the size of a tennis court, which was a mass grave where over 34,000 young German soldiers were internedñ and just as with our boys, it was ‘for king and country’, a great adventure that would all be over by Christmas, but in reality it was of course a slaughter of the innocents.

Another full day took place on what was known as the ‘Ypres Salient’, and included a visit to the Flanders Museum and a moving ceremony of the Last Post at the Menin Gate, which takes place nightly at 8pm and was

WESTMINSTER GUIDES ON THE WESTERN FRONT

by Rob Woodford

recently filmed on Michael Portillo’s Great Continental Railways series.Our final day ‘in the trenches’ saw us literally spend some time in

reconstructed trenches and in underground tunnels in the Canadian sector at Vimy Ridge – where a huge memorial appears to be giving a 2-fingered message to the enemy.

There were far too many site visits, with expert presentations by our learned host to mention in the space available here - but if any readers either independently or in a group were thinking of making such an emotive trip across the English Channel for a Battle Fields Tour, then your first point of contact should be Peter Jones of Single Step Tours.

www.singlesteptours.com email: peter@singlesteptours.com

13 May 2015 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! Page 9

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Page 10 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

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On 2nd May 2015, 80 cabs with 180 war veterans and their companions set off from

Harwich for The Return of the Liberators 1945-2015 trip to The Netherlands. Organised by The London Taxi Benevolent Association for War Disabled, in association with the Market Garden Foundation in the Netherlands, the trip saw veterans meeting Parkestone Quay Railway Club. Many of the veterans on this trip have made other trips with this taxi charity and so for some they were once again with a driver they had previously travelled with.

As the taxis dropped off their passengers, war veterans were welcomed into the club for refreshments and The Colchester Band played a selection of music. Soon the room and the bar were full of people meeting and greeting each other, some renewing acquaintances from previous trips organised by the charity. Meanwhile outside the car park was full to capacity with cabs all liveried ready for the trip. At 9pm, the convoy of taxis began boarding the Stena Line ferry for the overnight sailing to the Hook of

Holland. As the veterans disembarked their taxis on the car deck, a piper began to play and this piper was on hand throughout the weekend. Although bagpipes may be technically a lot more complicated today, the music they play remains something which stirs memories for many people.

On arrival in The Netherlands the next day, the convoy assembled on the quayside before starting off on a journey to Bronbeek Military Home and Museum. The Dutch police made the journey easy as the kept all other traffic behind the convoy. It is somewhat unusual to travel on a motorway with no other traffic! A warm welcome was extended to the convoy, with people lining the streets to wave to the veterans. It is clear how grateful the Dutch are to their liberators; everywhere we went during this trip people were waving and cheering the veterans and the taxi convoy. At Bronbeek a “Welcome Liberators” lunch was waiting for the veterans and their companions. Speeches of thanks and welcome were made before the veterans set off once again, this time to Hartenstein Airborne Museum at Oosterbeek. Despite the rainy weather once again the convoy was

met by streets lined with people welcoming the vets. It took some time for the entire convoy to get down the driveway to the Museum and park as so many people wanted to talk to the veterans. A concert was held in the bandstand and also a small number of veterans made their way to a newly planted scarlet oak for a ceremony dedicating the tree to the memory of glider pilots who played an important part in the liberation. Oosterbeek is in the Veluwezoom National Park, a beautiful area of trees and plantings. The scarlet oak will be in the park for hundreds of years to come as a memorial to the brave men who gave their lives for

freedom. Even the wet weather could not dampen the spirits of either the veterans or those who welcomed them.

Check in at the Papendal Hotel, which is also situated in lovely countryside, followed by an evening meal with entertainment followed. A band dressed in replica war time uniforms and singing some of the veterans’ favourite old tunes rounded off an exciting day. The hotel had posters on the walls with photographs of the veterans. These photos had been

RETURN OF THE LIBERATORS 1945 TO 2015 by Sandie Goodwin

Getting started

On the ferry

Quayside at Hook of Holland

Bronbeek

Unveiling Scarlet Oak

Groesbeek

Liberation Museum

Hartenstein

Vets in cab

13 May 2015 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! Page 11

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collected by the LTBAWD and made into postcards and in turn a poster was made of all the photos. The veterans were soon looking to find themselves in their younger days in their uniforms. During the course of the trip the veterans were seen giving the postcards of themselves to children who wanted a reminder of them. It was a lovely idea and much appreciated by both vets and the Dutch.

The next morning dawned and the veterans were once again treated to the piper playing as they got in their cabs for the short drive to Groesbeck Cemetery for a British Military Service. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries are immaculate and so peaceful. The service was led by a 95 year vicar who had also served in the forces. During our stay at the hotel we had met with historians who are a

wealth of information of the events of the Liberation and of the cemeteries themselves. Today remains are still being found in The Netherlands which are researched by the CWGC who try every avenue to identify the deceased. It can take up to two years to carry out all the necessary checks and then the families are given the opportunity to travel to the Netherlands for a memorial service. It is clear that whilst these historians are around no one will forget what happened in the Arnhem area and this information is taught in schools so the children understand the sacrifices made. During the course of this year’s celebrations of Liberation Day, many people were spotted wearing t-shirts proclaiming “I am a child of Freedom, thank you Mr Veteran.” Following the service at Grosbeek, the group travelled on to the National Liberation Museum at Grosbeek. The sun was shining and the veterans once again received a warm welcome. Many groups were in attendance, not just from The Netherlands and the UK but also Canada, all present to celebration Liberation Day. This is always on 5th May and is a Bank Holiday for the Dutch; the day before is when the remembrance services are held and so after a buffet dinner at their hotel the veterans split into three groups for services at Arnhem Town Hall, Oosterbeek Town Hall and at Heteran. These services were attended by many local people as it is an important celebration for Dutch people.

The following day started sunny but the weather forecast was not good. This time transport to Wageningen for the annual Liberation Parade was made by coaches. Three taxis were also ready to be in the parade, in red, white and blue. The charity was also joined by Hans Dooren, the European Representative of the London Vintage Taxi Association with his FX4S taxi, which was to be in the parade. Some of the veterans were to march in the parade and some were in their wheelchairs pushed by companions or taxi drivers. Everyone arrived and sat on the stand which had been erected for the veterans but all too soon, the skies darkened and the rain began. It soon became clear this was going to be a thunderstorm and the rain was so heavy that it was not safe top remain on the stands and so the veterans returned to the coaches. A few of them had taken shelter in tents in the grounds and decided to stay, but the majority were so wet the chairman of LTBAWD decided we should return to the hotel. Later the sun did return and those who stayed did watch the parade but the taxis were not part of it sadly. Spirits however were not dampened and after drying out at the hotel, the veterans enjoyed their time sitting chatting and talking of their experiences before dinner. This year the entertainment was provided by the same barber shop singers as had entertained the veterans the previous year and they were popular once again. Speeches and presentations were made, thanking all those who had made the trip possible and also the taxi drivers were given a hip flask engraved with the trip details.

The next day saw the convoy line up down the wide avenue of trees leading from the hotel. The piper played along the convoy before the police led us back to the Hook of Holland, with people waving as they were held back by the police to allow the convoy

through. Whatever your interest is in the Liberation Day, you cannot fail to be humbled by the warmth that the Dutch people have in their welcome for the veterans and surely they will not be forgotten here. During the somewhat rough crossing on the North Sea back to the UK as memorial service was held on the back of the ship with wreaths being thrown into the sea. It was a windy day and to begin with the wreaths were caught up in the wind but it was a moving experience and a mark of the respect for those who were lost at sea. The ferry docked at Harwich and the convoy began splitting up to return the veterans to their homes. Everyone agreed what a wonderful trip it had been and all had enjoyed themselves.

That’s me!

Hans with his vintage taxi

At the parade

Vets line up

Before the rain

Ready to leave

Service at sea

Drivers

Page 12 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

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The earliest known evidence as to the existence of the Guildhall dates back to around 1041.

This is verified by the fact that when the new hall was built in 1411, the coat of arms of Edward the Confessor were discovered, and so it is believed that the original hall was built during his reign. Situated in the very heart of the City of London, it is a medieval Grade I listed landmark. Today the Guildhall offers a unique combination of an esteemed historical setting whilst being fully equipped with excellent facilities for modern business requirements, as well as housing an art gallery and museum. During the Roman period, it was the site of an amphitheatre, partial remains of which are on public display in the basement of Guildhall Art Gallery

The new Guildhall took almost thirty years to build and was completed in 1440. It has a fascinating history. The Guilds were first started shortly after the Norman Conquest and were made up from the merchants and craftsmen of the City. They would regulate prices in the local market and acted as the local Chamber of Commerce. Many famous treason trials were held there, notably the trial of Archbishop Cranmer, who was tried for

treason in 1554 and found guilty. However, he was pardoned and sent to Oxford two years later, only to be burnt at the stake in 1556. Also tried for treason was Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for just nine days. She was found guilty and beheaded along with her husband Lord Dudley at Tower Hill in 1556.

One trial that should not go unmentioned was that of Sir Nicholas Throckmorton, who was tried for treason and found not guilty. The verdict was considered unsatisfactory and so the jury were

imprisoned and only released on payment of very heavy fines.

Guilds in the City are known as Livery Companies. Their coats of arms are all displayed at the Guildhall along with the arms of the City of London and the twelve principle Livery Companies. Guilds were started in the middle ages and were composed of workmen from specific trades and crafts. Their purpose was to defend the interests of the trade, regulate the quality of workmanship and the training of new members, and provide support and welfare for their members.

Guildhall has been the City powerhouse since the twelfth century. In an era when the Lord Mayor of London rivalled the monarch for influence and prestige, this was where he and the ruling merchant class held court, fine-tuned the laws and trading regulations that helped create London’s wealth. The City of London Corporation is housed in the Guildhall; the building is also today a wonderful setting for banquets in honour of visiting Heads of State and other dignitaries, royal occasions, and receptions for major historical anniversaries.

THE GUILDHALL by Alan Fleming

13 May 2015 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! Page 13

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Taxi Globe is pleased to have partnered with the distinguished team at the newly re-

opened Shepherd’s of Westminster to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a delicious three-course meal for two with a bottle of wine chosen by the manager.

Shepherd’s has long been the go-to eatery for many lobbyists, journalists and politicos as-well having a loyal following of keen locals. Needless to say when Shepherd’s shut its doors for business it lead to boundless lamentation across Westminster and from none other than former political editor at Sky News, Adam Boulton, who described it as a “sad day...for the best restaurant near Parliament”. But bereave no more! Shepherd’s is back. And back with a star studded team, front of house and back. Head Chef, Paul Croasdale’s impressive CV includes some of the nation’s favourite restaurants including Jason Atherton’s Berners Tavern. This capably strengthened by Sous Chef Owen Williams formally of the two Michelin starred restaurant, Michael Wignall at the Latymer.

The lucky winner of this competition will be feasting on the very best of British produce and cooking. The menu focuses on bold traditional flavours with inspired modern tweaks. Including tartare of English venison with blueberry, sautéed veal sweetbreads with wild garlic and tomato

ketchup and the beautifully fresh, thinly sliced Scottish scallops with pickled melon and ricotta. And for bigger plates; slow cooked venison loin, suckling pork belly with quince and bacon crumbs, 48 hour shoulder of Welsh lamb with clams and of course Shepherds’ signature, The Shepherd’s Pie.

The décor at Shepherd’s Of Westminster is equally British. Think green leather banquettes resembling those at the House of Commons, British racing green wallpaper and a bar so suave you might expect to find 007 propped up at it with a martini. The drinks menu includes an extensive list of fine spirits; Mackinlay Shakleton whiskey, Kettel One vodka and Woodford Reserve Bourbon to name a few. And for those who like something chilled and bubbly there is a carefully chosen list of Champagne cocktails as well as those more classic and contemporary.

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Heathrow Airport is working with Transport for London on an “informal agreement” in order to reduce the number of reported issues concerning

some private hire drivers at the airport. Heathrow’s Local Focus Forum holds meetings hosted by Heathrow and held quarterly for residents association representatives and councillors from the villages and wards bordering Heathrow. At their last meeting, held on March 17th, concerns were raised regarding the antisocial behaviour of private hire vehicle drivers and

residents asked what Heathrow could do to stop this, since they were there because of the airport. Chris Joyce, Surface Access Strategy Manager for the airport, said Heathrow is working on an informal agreement with Transport for London to reduce the number of issues with private hire vehicle drivers. Details of the agreement will be communicated once finalised. The charter will provide a basic agreement linked to their licence that can be used as leverage to improve behaviour.

IMPROVING PRIVATE HIRE SERVICE AT HEATHROW

Page 14 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

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drivers through our Legal Expenses Insurance Policy. Our Policy of Insurance provides cover to defend members in a Court of criminal jurisdiction against endorseable motor prosecutions and prosecutions, which could result in the loss of a member’s Hackney Carriage or proprietors licence.Cover also provides representation for members on a reconsideration of or an appeal to a Magistrate’s Court from the decision of a licensing authority to suspend or revoke a member’s taxi or taxi driver’s licence.If a member’s case goes to Court, representation is provided by our appointed Legal Representatives. However, we are unable to provide representation retrospectively. If you are not a member on the date of an offence or complaint we are unable to provide any legal cover. Join now before you need our support.Additionally, we also represent members at the PCO or their licensing authority in the event of a complaint being submitted by a taxi passenger or member of the public. Many complaints can be malicious, mischievous or simply submitted due to passenger failing to understand traffic conditions and suspecting that their driver has taken a devious route. Our success rate in dealing with PCO complaints is second to none with the vast majority being defended successfully.Box junctions. You must not enter the box until your

exit road or lane is clear. However, you may enter the box and wait when you want to turn right. Please observe the rules as we are finding that a high number of our members are receiving PCN’s for obstruction.Finally, when executing U-turns always take extra care and watch out for road-users on two wheels. Especially, during the hours of darkness.

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Please complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS. The annual subscription rate is£108.00. If you are unable to make a single payment, please make one cheque payablewith the current date for £36.00 and two post-dated cheques dated one month apart forthe same amounts. Make all cheques payable to:

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Badge No Shift Worked I also agree that the above information will be retained by Taxi drivers & Owners Legal Protection Ltd in a computer system under the terms of the Data Protection Act.

Signed Date

YOUR COVER AT A GLANCE TAXI DRIVERS LEGAL PROTECTION (TLP) members can now benefit fromhighly specialised legal protection, which protects the livelihoods of London’slicensed taxi drivers through our Legal Expenses Insurance Policy. Our Policy ofInsurance provides cover to defend members in a Court of criminal jurisdictionagainst endorseable motor prosecutions and prosecutions, which could result in theloss of a member’s Hackney Carriage or proprietors licence. Cover also providesrepresentation for members on a reconsideration of or an appeal to a Magistrate’sCourt from the decision of a licensing authority to suspend or revoke a member’staxi or taxi driver’s licence. If a member’s case goes to Court, representation isprovided by our appointed Legal Representatives. However, we are unable toprovide representation retrospectively. If you are not a member on the date of anoffence or complaint we are unable to provide any legal cover. Join now before youneed our support. Additionally, we also represent members at the PCO or theirlicensing authority in the event of a complaint being submitted by a taxi passengeror member of the public. Many complaints can be malicious, mischievous or simplysubmitted due to passenger failing to understand traffic conditions and suspectingthat their driver has taken a devious route. Our success rate in dealing with PCOcomplaints is second to none with the vast majority being defended successfully.

SUBSCRIPTION RATEOur subscriptions start at just £9.00 a month, which are payable by Standing Order.Alternatively, subscriptions can be paid quarterly at £27.00 or a one off annualpayment of £96.00. You can also submit one cheque for £36 and two post-datedcheques dated one month apart for the same amounts.

If you would like further information, take a look at our website. www.taxidriverslegalprotection.co.uk or call Dave on 07956 894701 or Alan on 07831 092123.

Hopefully, the chances are that you will have a trouble free driving career but youshould always have access to professional legal representation, should the needarise. This applies is you own your cab or rent a cab from a garage.

Joining Taxidrivers Legal Protection Ltd could not be simpler. Complete theapplication form on this page and send it to; TOPS, PO Box 439, Stanmore, HA79EY. Alternatively, take a look at our website, www.taxidriverslegalprotection.co.ukwhere you will find a printable application form and further information regardingour services.

Finally, please be aware of yellow box junctions. Do not enter unless your exit isclear.

Dave Cohen

Taxi drivers Legal Protection Ltd www.taxidriverslegalprotection.co.uk

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13 May 2015 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! Page 15

www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439

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STOP AND LET US HELP!HAVE YOU HAD AN ACCIDENT THAT WASN’T YOUR FAULT?

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NEED TO RENT A CAB? LOOK NO FURTHER!TX4 - replacement vehicle given with every crash repair.Low bakes spray for the best results • TX4 cabs for rent

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c&s taxis.indd 1 15/12/11 15:56:18

Page 16 Remember – You saw it first in the Globe! 13 May 2015

www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439

Terms and conditions

Business users only. Finance offer available on Personal Contract Purchase, figures based on TX4 Elegance (automatic) at £39,195 OTR with a £2,995 deposit followed by 48 monthly payments of £625.04 (equivalent weekly payments of £144.24) plus an optional final payment of £15,725 based upon an annual contracted mileage of 30,000 (120,000 over term). Excess mileage charge of 6.0 pence (+VAT) per mile applies. If the vehicle is in good condition and has not exceeded the allowed mileage you will have nothing further to pay. Finance is subject to status and is only available to UK residents aged 18 and over. Finance is provided by Black Horse Taxi Finance a trading style of Black Horse Ltd, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. Other models are available.

A wholly-owned subsidiary of

The London Taxi Company 39-41 Brewery Road London N7 9QH

0207 700 0888 london-taxis.co.uk london@london-taxis.co.uk

TheLondonTaxiCompanyUKLondonTaxiCoUKLondonTaxiCompanyUK

Excellence costs less than you might expect.

You can drive away our best ever TX4 for the equivalent of just £145 per week (only £625 a month) and a deposit of £2,995, with our 4 year Personal Contract

Purchase deal. And at the end of the term, you can choose to buy it for a guaranteed future value of £15,725, trade in or walk away. It’s as simple as that.

It really is our best ever TX4. The improvements we’ve made in quality mean that as well as more confidence, we can now give you more cover. Every new TX4

now comes with an extra 20,000 miles protection – that’s a 3 year, 120,000 mile vehicle warranty, as standard.

At LTC, we aim to protect what’s most important to you: your investment in your business. That’s why we offer taxis that offer real value, with a year’s free road tax

and 12 month’s RAC cover included in the price.

See for yourself how much you can get for just £145 a week. Book a test drive today.

TX4: The London Taxi from LTC — the people who only make taxis.

L01714032 LTC 15 Plate Ad_Taxi Globe_338x265.indd 1 24/02/2015 13:23

13 May 2015 13 May 2015

Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439 Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)

Verifone have been a supplier of the Microtax taximeter for a year now and are celebrating the first birthday of their partnership with Hale.

Hale meters are integrated in the VeriFone VTS card payment solution, although both products are available separately. Drivers can rent their meter through Verifone for just £180 including VAT over two years, although for new VTS card payment customers, the meter is completely free for the first year.

Hale now operate in over 40 countries. Their award-winning meters have been

available in the UK for some time, and the latest Hale MCT-06 model will already be familiar to many drivers.

Simon Pancutt (above right) of VeriFone is delighted to be offering this service to fleets and drivers. “A year down the line, we’re now seeing drivers coming to the end of their free first year meter rental, and are signing up for our great two year deal.”To reserve your Hale meter, call Verifone today on 0333 666 1000.

METERS RUNNING FOR A YEAR AT VERIFONE

Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on the day; Charlton, Spurs, Arsenal, West Ham, Millwall…and of course Man Utd were all represented!

Who doesn’t like chocolate? Judging by the expression on their faces, the lucky passengers who were presented with a free bar of Cadburys chocolate certainly do.

As part of the recent Cadburys livery taxi

campaign run by Verifone Media in London, drivers were given cases full of chocolate, and gave over 5000 bars out to passengers during the campaign.

Cadburys were promoting a range of Dairy Milk products, some firm favourites and some tasty new ones. The taxis were wrapped in striking purple graphics, each one promoting one of seven varieties of Dairy Milk; Fruit & Nut, Chips Ahoy, Oreo, Whole Nut, Caramel, Daim and Original.

According to one driver, it was more difficult to give chocolate away than it was doing the Knowledge!

WHERE’S THE CATCH?

PASSENGER ADMIN CHARGESThese systems all apply a 10% passenger admin charge when fares are paid by any of the major debit or credit cards, including AmEx. This is not deducted from the metered fare or any tips – all that money goes directly to the driver. The admin charge is what the passenger pays on top of the fare, and it is this money that is shared between the service provider and card issuer (Visa, MasterCard, Amex etc).

The Verifone VTS system has no minimum threshold or hidden charges, and their Victory system* has an easy-to-meet target of £150 total value of card transactions per month (ie: £15 in passenger admin charges). This helps to pay for the Victory hardware, network SIM, software, processing and driver support back-up, as well as the share taken by the card issuer. For Victory customers, if monthly admins are less than £15, the shortfall is paid by the driver. For example, if only £9 in admins is generated in one month, that’s a £6 + VAT shortfall.

CAN A FREE LUNCH REALLY BE FREE?The ‘free’ card payment facility from Taxiworld comes at a price. It’s only free if you sign up for a meter, and that will cost you £162 per year. By contrast, the Verifone VTS solution is not tied in to any other deals so it really is free - always. In fact,

you even get a genuinely free Hale Microtax 06 meter for a year with a Verifone VTS system too, and Verifone only charge £90 a year meter rental thereafter assuming you choose to keep it longer! Even the Verifone Victory handheld system is free if you take £150 in card fares in the month.

The Verifone VTS Card Payment System costs drivers nothing, fares are transferred three times a week and you get a full year’s meter rental free. For Verifone Victory drivers (ideal if you’re renting or swap cabs regularly) there are also no charges if you meet the monthly target. If you use Victory and generate than less than £15 in admin charges in a month, the most you’ll pay is £15.

With Taxiworld, you’ll have to pay £162 every year for your meter in order to get the ‘free’ card payment system regardless of how many card fares you take, you’ll have to wait a whole week to be paid as credits are only transferred every seven days (unless you want to pay to get them more often), but you do get Google Maps and SatNav in case you get lost and don’t have a smart phone.

DO PASSENGERS WANT TO PAY BY CARD?Kofi Okwsu-Agyei (below) has been taking card fares for three years now, and his passengers are

happy to see he takes cards. Many of his fares are around £30 or £40, and he has taken a lot of them - over 2200 to be precise!

PLAYING THE WILD CARDMany apps provide card payment facilities too, but their functionality and banking code/PCI/TfL compliance is often compromised - for example, not all transaction types can be processed. TfL’s reports that more than 600 million contactless journeys were made in just six months, so a card solution that can’t take contactless payments is not really a solution at all. It’s also possible that card payments will be made mandatory soon, and that app and smart phone systems will not be allowed. Even the popular Verifone Victory handheld solution may be affected if a fixed solution is mandated, but Verifone state that in any eventuality, conversion to a fully compliant VTS system will be offered FREE to all Victory customers.For more information about Verifone card payment solutions, call 0333 666 1000 or visit www.verifonetaxi.co.uk.

HOW TO MAKE A PASSENGERS DAY…

They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, so when you see something for nothing, it’s worth a closer look. Card payment solutions for taxi drivers can be a minefield of costs, including some that are not easy to spot at a glance. We compared two leading card payment service providers - Verifone and Taxiworld - and found that the dreaded T&Cs

needn’t be so dreadful if you choose wisely.We checked whether or not the systems were able to take the full range of card transactions, whether there were any rental, insurance or payment processing charges, whether there were fixed installation or handheld options, what other conditions might apply and what added-value options were available.

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)

Hale meters are integrated in the VeriFone VTS card payment solution, although both products are available separately. Drivers can rent their meter through Verifone for just £180 including VAT over two years, although for new VTS card payment customers, the meter is completely free for the first year.

Hale now operate in over 40 countries. Their award-winning meters have been

Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help

As part of the recent Cadburys livery taxi

campaign run by Verifone Media in campaign run by Verifone Media in London, drivers were given cases full of chocolate, and gave over 5000 bars out to passengers during the campaign.

Cadburys were promoting a range of Dairy Milk products, some firm favourites and some tasty new ones. The taxis were wrapped in striking purple graphics, each one promoting one of seven varieties of Dairy Milk; Fruit & Nut, Chips Ahoy, Oreo, Whole Nut, Caramel, Daim and Original.

According to one driver, it was more difficult to give chocolate away than it was doing the Knowledge!

celebrating the first birthday of their

Hale meters are integrated in the

campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on the day; Charlton, Spurs, Arsenal, West Ham, Millwall…and of course Man Utd were all represented!

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME (AND AWAY)Verifone ran DigitalTops ads in support of the Bobby Moore Fund ‘Football Shirt Friday’ campaign last month. It raised awareness to help campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on

campaign last month. It raised awareness to help tackle bowel cancer, and many of the Verifone team turned out in their own team colours on the day; Charlton, Spurs, Arsenal, West Ham, Millwall…and of course Man Utd

With Taxiworld, you’ll have to pay £162 every year for your meter in order to get the ‘free’ card payment system regardless of how many card fares you take, you’ll have to wait a whole week to be paid as credits are only transferred every seven days (unless you want to pay to get them more often), but you do get Google Maps and SatNav in case you get lost

DO PASSENGERS WANT TO PAY BY CARD?Kofi Okwsu-Agyei (below) has been taking card

systems will not be allowed. Even the popular Verifone Victory handheld solution may be affected if a fixed solution is mandated, but Verifone state that in any eventuality, conversion to a fully compliant VTS system will be offered FREE to all Victory customers.For more information about Verifone card payment solutions, call 0333 666 1000 or visit www.verifonetaxi.co.uk.

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Free 1 yr Meter Hire

SatNav

Free 1 yr Meter Hire

Transaction TypeDrivers Fares & Tips paid in to Account

Passenger Payment Unit

GREAT METER DEAL NOW RUNNING...

LET’S WORK TOGETHER.

0333 666 1000

Select option 2 and ask for Hani*Equivalent annual cost based on 2 year contract. Includes VAT. Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

Get your HALE meter supplied and fitted at Verifone right now and pay just £180 for a two year contract.

£90 Installed by fully trained technicians

Choose from two convenient London operations centres

per year*

HALE MICROTAX-06 TAXIMETER

verifonetaxi.co.uk

13 May 2015

Website: www.taxiglobe.info – To advertise in the most independent newspaper – Telephone – 01778 391189 Editorial – 01707 885439

ISSUE 760 13 May 2015

LONDON BRACED FOR POST-ELECTION BOOM?

NEW AD FORMATHITS TOP SPOT

Feeling post-election overload yet? Well guess what – there’s another one in less than a year, and the results of that one are likely to have an even bigger impact on the London taxi trade.The London Mayoral Election is scheduled for 5 May 2016, so by this time next year you’ll have voted for the new Mayor of London. Regardless of who’s in the hotseat, one thing is certain; being a London taxi driver means you’ll still have to work hard if you rely on your fare takings for a decent living. Having said that, most commentators agree that Britain is now emerging from recession, so maybe the new Mayor will lead London through a period of boom where people have more money to spend – on taxis amongst other things?

For most of us though, we need to make a living today, never mind in a years’ time. So what can you do to make sure you get your fair share of the business that’s out there right now? Here are five top tips:

THINK LIKE A PUNTEROnce a cabbie, always a cabbie – even when you’re off duty. But when you’re not behind the wheel, you’re a member of the general public. It’s now an undeniable fact that the public pay for more with a card than they do with cash. If you want their money, you need to take card payments. Verifone card payment solutions are already in over 63,000 taxis worldwide.

EARN YOUR TIPSLondon cabbies are the best in the world. Even if it’s a slow day, keep smiling and make sure you maintain those high standards – it’ll mean more tips! If you have a Verifone card machine, it will automatically prompt your passengers to add a tip when paying by card, and you keep every penny of it, along with every penny of the metered fare.

MAKE MONEY WHILST YOU’RE ASLEEPYour taxi is not only your ‘office’ and the best way to travel around town, it’s also a mobile billboard. By carrying advertising, you’ll be earning even when you’re asleep. Verifone Media have traditional livery and superside opportunities for owner-drivers and fleets.

EMBRACE THE DIGITAL AGERoof-mounted digital screens are already familiar on taxis in London. Advertisers love digital media. Everything has gone digital, from huge billboards like the ones on the Hammersmith flyover to escalator ad panels on the Underground. DigitalTops for TX4 cabs are worth £9,000 over 5 years to owner-drivers!

CUT YOUR OVERHEADSThe cost of your overheads can make a big dent in your takings. Shop around for the best insurance, diesel, tyre and servicing deals. Verifone are currently running a great meter deal. It’s absolutely free for a year, then £180 in total for the next two years, meaning an average of £60 per year over three years.

Verifone Media are winning the battle for digital space in London, and that’s good news for drivers. DigitalTops – the screens mounted on top of TX4 taxis – are taking on other digital media and winning back the taxi advertising cash that was being lost to new digital platforms. Verifone are offering drivers a whopping £9,000 to have a DigitalTop fitted before reaching the TfL limit of 1000 cabs.TfL have not only limited the number of cabs that can carry the units, they also insist that the cabs carry no other form of advertising. That suits a lot of TX4 owners who would rather not have vinyl ads on their cabs, but who welcome the additional revenue advertising generates.Sadeek Rahman of Verifone also highlights other benefits of the DigitalTops. “The ads are sent to the units using the latest wireless technology, so drivers don’t need to come in to have their ads changed. Once the unit’s fitted, there shouldn’t be any down time. And our units are fully TfL compliant, meaning taxis carrying them can go anywhere. The unit doesn’t affect access to any public roads or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom like at Stratford or Euston.”Verifone are now taking bookings for DigitalTops campaigns from advertisers, and are keen to talk to any TX4 owners who are interested in having a unit fitted (and would like an extra £9,000).

and superside opportunities for owner-drivers and fleets.

EMBRACE THE DIGITAL AGERoof-mounted digital screens are already familiar on taxis in London. Advertisers love digital media. Everything has gone digital, from huge billboards like the ones on the Hammersmith flyover to escalator ad panels on the Underground. DigitalTops for TX4 cabs are worth £9,000 over 5 years to

CUT YOUR OVERHEADSThe cost of your overheads can make a big dent in your takings. Shop around for the best insurance, diesel, tyre and servicing deals. Verifone are currently running a great meter deal. It’s absolutely free for a year, then £180 in total for the next two years, meaning an average of £60 per year over three years.

advertising generates.Sadeek Rahman of Verifone also highlights other benefits of the DigitalTops. “The ads are sent to the units using the latest wireless technology, so drivers don’t need to come in to have their ads changed. Once the unit’s fitted, there shouldn’t be any down time. And our units are fully TfL compliant, meaning taxis carrying them can go anywhere. The unit doesn’t affect access to any public roads or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom like at Stratford or Euston.”Verifone are now taking bookings for DigitalTops campaigns from advertisers, and are keen to talk to any TX4 owners who are interested in having a unit fitted (and would like an extra £9,000).

or taxi ranks, even those with low headroom like at Stratford or Euston.”Verifone are now taking bookings for DigitalTops campaigns from advertisers, and are keen to talk to any TX4 owners who are interested in having a unit fitted (and would like an extra £9,000).

DigitalTops TMDigitalTops TM

WHAT COULD YOU DO WITH

£9000LET’S WORK TOGETHER.

0333 666 1000 Select option 2 and speak to a member of the sales team today

PLUS A FREE CARD SYSTEM + FREE METER HIRE FOR 2 YEARS?

*Terms & conditions apply TM

TX4 OWNER? GET PAID £150 EVERY MONTH when you have a Verifone Media DigitalTop fitted*

verifonetaxi.co.uk

No downtimeads remotely updated

Maximum standout attracts more hails

Unrestricted access throughout London

CARD PAYMENT SYSTEMS

CAN I PAY BY CARD?88% OF PASSENGERS WANT THE OPTION TO PAY BY CARD IN YOUR TAXI Verifone pioneered payment technology for taxis. With unmatched expertise and relentless support, we now help over 6000 London cabbies take card payments from their passengers.

LET’S WORK TOGETHER.

0333 666 1000 Select option 2 and speak to a member of the sales team today

verifonetaxi.co.uk *Terms & conditions apply #Source TfL Survey 2014

Solutions designed to cost you nothing

You keep the full metered fare plus all tips

Two easy-to-use systems;fixed and hand-held

Accept Chip & PIN,swipe and contactless transactions

Fares plus tips paid 3 times a week

#

1 year

FREE meter deal with our taxi

payment solutions*

PROUD TO SUPPORTTHE BEST TAXI TRADE IN THE WORLD

VERIFONE IS HERE TO HELP. CALL THE DRIVERSERVICES TEAM ON:

0333 666 1000