ALL THINGS LICENSING
For the licensed trade, the opportunity is clear, but so too is the responsibility. Post-match demand often coincides with alcohol consumption, increased passenger volumes, pressure on pricing and availability; and of course public behaviour in towns and cities depending on the result.
What is clear is that a professional, reliable taxi service during these periods is not just commercially beneficial, it is essential to supporting local night- time economies and ensuring people get home safely.
Flags on vehicles: pride, promotion and perception
With international football comes national pride and inevitably, the question of flags on vehicles which tend to appear at the time of major sporting tournaments.
Many licensed drivers will understandably want to display support for their team. However, the issue is no longer as straightforward as it once was. In the past couple of years, the phrase “taking back the flag” has emerged in public discourse. It reflects an awareness that national symbols, such as the St George’s Cross, have, at times, been associated with political or cultural tensions rather than simple sporting pride.
What this means for taxi drivers
Displaying a flag with national pride with generally be understood and accepted in most areas, but drivers should consider: • Licensing conditions: some authorities regulate signage, advertising, or vehicle appearance. Its always best to check with your local authority if you’re not sure.
• Public perception: passengers may interpret symbols differently depending on context.
• Professional neutrality: taxis are a public service. Visibility of strong personal messaging can risk alienating customers.
Practical advice
• Keep flags temporary, tasteful, and clearly linked to sporting events
• Avoid anything that could be perceived as political or confrontational
• Ensure flags do not obstruct visibility or vehicle safety
• Check local licensing guidance before displaying 64
Done appropriately, a flag can create a sense of shared enthusiasm and conversation with passengers. Done poorly, it can undermine the professional image the trade works hard to maintain.
Moments of national excitement such as a World Cup highlight just how vital the taxi and private hire trade is. But they also remind us that visibility matters. Whether it’s the standards we operate to or the symbols we display, everything contributes to public trust.
The IoL – open to everyone in the trade
Finally, in keeping with the earlier theme, I want to reiterate the message that I shared at the Expo: the Institute of Licensing is not just for councils.
The IoL brings together: • Licensing authorities • Taxi and PHV trade representatives • Operators • Legal professionals • Industry suppliers • Enforcement specialists
Our aim is to create a broad, collaborative environment where ideas, challenges and best practice can be shared openly.
The IoL provides two major publications free to members: • LINK (Licensing Information News & Knowledge): quarterly, sector-wide updates
• The Journal of Licensing: three editions per year, covering legal matters, case law and professional commentary
Members also gain access to regional events, most of which are free, providing excellent opportunities to hear from experts, ask difficult questions, and network with peers.
And finally, the IoL’s communications network, including rapid “licensing flashes” and the member discussion forum, ensures professionals stay informed in real time.
If you work in or alongside the taxi and PHV sector, then by definition you are involved in licensing, and the IoL is here to support you.
For further details, and to make sure you don’t get left behind visit:
https://instituteoflicensing.org/ JUNE 2026 PHTM
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