LONDON’S CABBIES SEE THE LIGHT!

With London’s population nearing 8 million, and with an estimated 21,000 licensed taxis on the roads, we compete with up to 380 others when attempting to hail a black cab. So what are the secrets for success?

The days of waiting ages for a London cab only to see it sail past your flailing arm are set to end today with the launch of the innovative hand-held taxi-hailer.

Already in use by concierges at some of London’s top hotels, the taxi-hailer is now being made available to the public. Research shows that you are up to 5 times more likely to get a cab using a taxi hailer - thus significantly easing the struggle for London’s regular cab users, tourists, shoppers and late-night revellers to get a black cab home or to their next destination quickly and safely.

The brainchild of London cabbie Tony Brady and product design graduate Chris Cullen, the new taxi-hailer solves the problem of attracting the attention of cab drivers which, as Tony comments, is a frequent complaint by his passengers. This unique product will be particularly welcomed by women, the elderly and disabled passengers who experience more problems than most in competing at the roadside for a cab home and, as a result, are more likely to be left stranded.

The hand held device uses LED technology for maximum effect and guarantees 100 hours of vivid flashing light. Conveniently sized to fit comfortably in your pocket or purse, it provides a bright, energy efficient, credit card sized flashing light, specifically designed to assist passengers to identify themselves quickly to drivers. At just £9.99 it costs less than the price of an average cab ride.

Tony Brady explained: “It is easy for people to see a London cab from a distance but much harder for the cab drivers to see them, particularly in the evenings, at night and in the rain, all of which are times when competition for a black cab can be fierce.”

With the product becoming increasingly recognised by licensed taxi drivers and with growing demand from stockists in New York, home of the iconic yellow taxi cab, the Taxi Hailer is en route to become an essential item for city dwellers worldwide.

'As a hotel concierge I think that these are a great, clever and safe idea'. Simon, Head Concierge Browns Hotel London

'It's the best, the taxis see me, and all the guests are asking me where they can get them', Teddy, Doorman Milestone Hotel Kensington 'It's absolutely wonderful'. John, Doorman Wolseley Restaurant Piccadilly London

www.taxihailer.co.uk