When I arrived at the Athens airport, I was surprised to see so many taxis with the Uber name on them. In fact, they clearly say “Uber Taxi” which is so strange to see and someone from the US who has seen the division between the two.
In Athens, Greece, Uber and traditional taxis have found a way to coexist and even collaborate. I asked my taxi / uber driver in Athens, Greece about this. He said Uber came in and tried to takeover, so the taxi drivers protested and went on strike. It forced Uber to partner with the Here’s how they work together:
1. Uber’s Partnership with Taxi Services
- In Athens, Uber operates by partnering with licensed taxi drivers. Unlike in other cities where Uber has its own fleet of private drivers, in Athens, the service is integrated with the existing taxi infrastructure. This means that when you request a ride through the Uber app, a licensed taxi may arrive to pick you up.
2. How It Works for Riders
- Booking a Ride: Users can book a ride through the Uber app, just like in other cities. However, instead of a private Uber driver, a traditional taxi driver will likely respond to the request.
- Pricing: The fare is calculated based on the metered taxi rates, but payment is handled through the Uber app, providing convenience and eliminating the need for cash.
- Convenience: Riders benefit from the convenience of the Uber app while using licensed taxis, which are regulated and familiar with local routes.
3. Benefits for Taxi Drivers
- Increased Business: By partnering with Uber, taxi drivers gain access to a larger pool of potential customers, especially tourists who might prefer using the Uber app due to its global presence.
- Technology Integration: Taxi drivers benefit from Uber’s technology, including GPS navigation and cashless transactions, which can improve their efficiency and customer service.
4. Regulatory Compliance
- This collaboration allows Uber to operate legally within the regulatory framework of Athens. Since the drivers are licensed taxi operators, they adhere to the local laws and regulations governing transportation services.
5. User Experience
- Familiarity: For tourists and locals alike, using the Uber app provides a familiar and user-friendly way to hail a taxi without needing to know the local language or deal with cash.
- Safety and Reliability: The partnership ensures that users are getting a ride with a professional, licensed driver, which enhances safety and reliability.
This model allows Uber to maintain a presence in Athens while respecting the traditional taxi industry, creating a win-win situation for both parties and offering a seamless experience for users.
