Member Article

Blue Line to recruit 100 drivers

ONE of the region’s largest taxi firms is embarking on a major recruitment drive as it looks to meet increasing demand.

Blue Line Taxis hopes to employ an additional 100 drivers to respond to the estimated 90,000 calls it takes each week, with the possibility of more if the workload continues to increase.

The Wallsend-based business has already recruited 42 taxi drivers from its Newcastle division, which closed last month after failing to win a battle with a council over using one central telephone number, and is in the process of transferring more over to North Tyneside licensed plates.

But the 54-year-old private hire business says it needs at least 50 additional drivers as it looks to expand its base in Wallsend.

Managing Director Ian Shanks said: “I am delighted that we are able to provide work for more drivers.

“Blue Line customers are a very loyal bunch so we want to reward that by having as many cars on the road as possible to meet demand, particularly at peak periods such as weekends and Christmas.

“The recruitment drive is to ensure we continue the level of service our customers have come to expect over many years. They like to use Blue Line because they know the get a fair price and trust our good name.”

Blue Line, which has spent over £5millon on sophisticated booking systems, software and the development of mobile phone app, carry over 200,000 passengers every week.

The business is offering incentives to potential new drivers including financial support to help them obtain a taxi licence; a guarantee of work; and free use of a replacement taxi for up to three days if their own vehicle breaks down.

Mr Shanks added: “People are using taxis more than ever because it is a transport service that can be relied upon and we operate 24 hours a day unlike buses and trains.

“People also like a door-to-door service and the security of knowing they can get home safely. Demand for taxis has never been higher and as one of the region’s longest established firms, we have a responsibility to ensure that demand is met.”

For more information on becoming a driver for Blue Line taxis, please call 0191 209 8010 or email info@bluelinetaxis.com

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