PHTM EXPO
THE ORIGINAL AND STILL TECHNOLOGY
We don’t like to blow our own trumpet when it comes to the PHTM EXPO, so we’re very happy to share an unbiased review of the show sent to us by Andy Doody, Thanet operator and former Chairman of the Thanet Taxi Association
As a returning visitor to the 2023 PHTMPrivate Hire and Taxi Expo in Milton Keynes last month, I was immersed in a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere filled with industry professionals, innovative technologies and informative seminars.
The expo, held at the MK Dons spacious convention centre, showcased the latest advancements in the taxi and private hire sector, making it an exciting event for both enthusiasts and industry professionals like me. There was within minutes an air of excitement which was brimming with opportunities. There was on arrival a few wonderful vintage taxis in pristine condition with knowledgeable, friendly owners who were happy to share a few minutes and their stories - a great start to day one at the PHTM EXPO.
Upon entering the expo hall, I was greeted by a plethora of exhibitors, each displaying their cutting- edge products and services. Prominent developers, trade applications, taxi and private hire companies had their stands set up, offering a glimpse into their services, and showcasing their brand new vehicles. The displays were a visual treat, featuring sleek and modern designs, highlighting the industry’s progress in providing business enhancements as well as comfortable and stylish transportation options.
One of the highlights of the expo for me as an operator with four decades of experience in all aspects of our business, was the introduction of several innovative apps specifically tailored for the taxi trade. There were advanced booking systems from Cordic (CabFusion), Autocab and iCabbi to name a few; Karen representing the NPHTA giving advice to both fleet operators and individual drivers; new and seamless payment processing, with all the benefits and APIs it provides for operators as we all veer to cashless solutions; real-time navigation tools; in-vehicle CCTV companies, such as S.A.F.E systems and 4eyez, with schemes prepared as licensing districts begin to make them mandatory; apps aimed to enhance efficiency and improve customer experience.
I had the chance during the two days to interact with many of the developers behind these innovative applications, and their enthusiasm for revolutionising the industry was truly infectious. Outsourcing solutions was interesting and informative with staffing options I had not really looked into by the chaps from Nexgen and could be another difficulty addressed.
These numerous technology, safety and automotive companies presented their ground-breaking solutions tailored specifically for the taxi and private hire industry in a clear and interesting way. I explored these booths offering advanced dispatch systems, mobile apps for seamless bookings, and innovative payment solutions that streamlined the passenger experience several times to make sure that I explored all opportunities and new ideas ready to share with other operators and fleet owners within my
6 JUNE 2023 PHTM
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