Winnipeg taxis make changes ahead of ride-sharing competition arriving

Edmonton-based ride-sharing company TappCar announced it intends to launch in Winnipeg come March 1, 2018 and Winnipeg’s taxi industry said it’s ready for the competition.

As competitors Uber and Lyft showed interest in launching their companies in Winnipeg a few months back, the city’s taxi drivers said they realized change was necessary to keep Winnipeggers comfortable and reliant on them.

Now, with TappCar saying it plans to be on Winnipeg streets in March, cab drivers said they’re working to improve their quality.

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Jaspal Bedi has been a taxi driver, owner and operator for 20 years.

He said with the competitors trying to enter the Winnipeg market, his team needs to aim higher than it already has.

He said other improvements, specifically to Duffy’s Taxis, include cleaning taxis twice per shift instead of once, and wearing uniforms.

“We know what challenges are out there and what needs to be corrected and we’re making sure that’s done properly,” Bedi said.

Bedi said new training is ongoing for drivers and he expects the training will result in drivers improving communication skills with passengers, a more friendly demeanour and much more.