There is a new name but plenty of familiar faces in Merseyside’s private-hire scene after Veezu’s takeover of long-standing Knowsley operator Britannia Taxis.
The Liverpool Echo reports that Veezu – which describes itself as UK’s the fastest-growing taxi and private hire technology business – bought Britannia Taxis in 2023 and has now rebranded the company.
Britannia Taxis was founded in 1988 and acquired Liverpool firm Davy Liver in 2017. In 2023, the Echo reports that it acquired Wigan firm Bluestar before being acquired by Veezu that year.
Technology
Operating from more than 50 locations across the UK, the company told the Echo its customers will now benefit from improved technology, additional payment options, and smarter ride features available via the Veezu app.
Regional operations director Chris Neary said: “We’ve always believed that better travel starts locally – with trusted driver-partners, smart tools and a service people can rely on.
“By bringing Britannia Taxis under the Veezu name, we’re creating a simpler, more consistent experience for passengers across Liverpool and its surrounding areas. We’re investing in new technology, improving access to transport, and continuing to support the communities we serve through hyperlocal investment.”
Despite the name and branding change, passengers can call the usual Liverpool number on 0151 708 7080, St Helens number on 01744 777 777 and Wigan number on 01942 242424 to book a taxi.
Passengers can also book using the Veezu app, which offers payment options, including cash, card, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Legal battle
While Veezu is a business rival to Liverpool-based Delta taxis, the Echo reports that the two are on the same side in their legal battle with Uber in a bid to block a judgement that it says could see private hire cab fares rise by 20%. It added: “This will be the third time in four years that Liverpool-based Delta has gone up against the international ride-hailing app, in a case where Uber Britannia Ltd seek a declaration from the court which would see VAT added to the cost of all private hire vehicle (PHV) taxi fares outside of London.”
It has been reported that Delta Taxis and Cardiff-based Veezu have launched a new ‘Fighting Fund to Protect Passenger Fares’ campaign calling for cross-sector and public support as they prepare to return to court in July.
The Echo explains that if Delta Taxis and Veezu lose the case, passengers across the country could see the cost of private hire journeys rise significantly through the application of VAT at 20%.
This is because unlike other modes of transport, which have a zero VAT rating, the PHV industry remains the only form of transport subject to full VAT.
While it is sad to see a long-standing taxi operator’s name disappear, the important thing for the community it serves is that the same drivers will be on hand to deliver the same level of service customers rely on.
And the Veezu app will make it easier for people to book and pay for taxis.
The big change could come following the result of the court case with Uber, which has major implications for the private-hire industry.
