2014 saw the arrival of ehailing and the introduction of new complimentary technology. The industry was approached to join the new era of taxis and discussions began. Almost immediately it was clear the highly regulated industry numbers available was not going to be enough to support the Apps and it was made clear, 10 000 vehicles are needed to roll out and become viable. This raised red flags and industry realized the saturation of our mode would be devastating and the pushback unfolded.

The Apps were true to their word and due to antiquated legislation (still not finalized), minimal enforcement, lack of understanding and zero political will to stop the illegal roll out with thousands of taxis all but destroyed an industry.

Today many Apps are available and more on the way, with traditional cabs having mostly joined these platforms, some maintaining a select clientele of their own, offering that more personalized service with a voice and physical response. The City of Cape Town has increased its enforcements and resulting impounds contributing nearly R40 million a year in revenue. The provincial government has also failed to formalise or empower the industry, combined with the lack of political will, has been extremely frustrating.

Watching the demise of an industry, the rapid decline in standards and the proliferation of vehicles operating as public transport vehicles with no government oversight, zero compliance, uninsured vehicles, unregistered drivers and more and more platforms entering the industry. A few industry members stood up and said its enough, and we took it upon ourselves to do what we can to better manage this mode.

Five individuals joined together, packing a wealth of industry Knowledge, over 120 years in transport and all operating business within the taxi industry, hoping to unite likeminded operators in forming the first member driven structure for the industry. Still no legislative or provincial bill to protect the public and the industry, zero compliance, uninsured vehicles and exploitation of drivers with unrealistic expectations and promises made to new entrants to the industry, is going unchecked within a mode of public transport. It was simply shattering to see such a fundamentally brilliant tool (ehailing ) so badly managed, a tool that should have complimented our mode yet it has been allowed to continue unchecked for nearly six years already.  

It remains unfathomable, inexcusable and unforgiveable.

Industry has formed the Co-operative to better equip our industry and to achieve a safer ride, a more sustainable business and most importantly a compliant and regulated industry, proud to offer the community a secure service.