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Marshalling
We have had a lot of demands on our marshalling services recently and
have subsequently had to expand our team, so you may have noticed that at
different venues some new drivers have been used. Let me make it quite clear
that this, in no way, reflects on the marshals who have served us well over
the years. They are not being superseded and we will certainly be continuing
to use their experience. However, the only way we can meet all our
requirements is to give more drivers the chance to learn by doing the job.
While on the subject, I would like to thank drivers for the way
they provide such a good service when cabs are required at these events,
there is nothing worse than for a marshal to call for cabs with the response
being poor. Keep up the good work!
Heathrow
As Chairman of JRTA, I also represent the three radio circuits at
Heathrow. Regarding pick-ups for radio jobs, at a recent meeting at Heathrow
with all the representatives of the trade, the future of the boundary
changes next year and how it affects the journeys out of the Met were
discussed as well as the local journeys situation.
A plan has been put forward - incidentally not for the first
time - and has received favourable consideration by HAL. We are now awaiting
further discussions with them to see if these plans can be agreed to the
benefit of all parties involved.
I also had a look at the radio pick-up points at the
various
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terminals which, other than the occasional car parking on them, appear to
be working satisfactory, There is one bone of contention, it appears
that a small minority of drivers using the feeder park are not closing up in
their groups and are leaving spaces so if they get a job offer from their
radio circuit, they can get out. I'm afraid that is not on because it causes
bad feeling with non-radio drivers who are losing their space. Please don't do
it.
The Future ?
What is the future of this trade and indeed Dial-a-Cab? This question has
been in all our minds this past year or so. As they say, it's the sixty four
thousand dollar question.
Years ago, Dial-a-Cab or ODRTS or Lords (as we were once known) was far more
insular than we are now with trade matters and the like being left to others.
Not any more!
The Radio circuits have grown to such an extent that we are all a vital part
of this industry and our voice is heard, carrying a considerable weight.
However, we, as elected Board members, are in office to serve our members
first and foremost and to promote their interests. That must always be our
first consideration.
That is not as easy as it first
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appears considering how we have to plan for the future and additionally
combat competition inside and outside the trade. Make no mistake, there are
forces around that see great opportunities in the future and they have
considerable financial muscle, however, we are now in a strong position
financially and are ready to meet the challenge.
Dial-a-Cab at this moment leads, but we have to maintain the momentum by
expansion and also by meeting the requirements of our customers. How do we
do more than we are doing now?
I have always believed that success is built by giving the customer what
they require at the time they want it and at the price they are prepared to
pay. If you do that, they will use you,
providing you do it better than anyone else - and at the moment we do! That
is the crux of the matter, I repeat, at the moment we do!
But we cannot rest on our laurels because that will take us
backwards at a very fast rate. Make no mistake, this trade will see great
changes before long and you do not have to be a genius to see that. You, the
members, could well be asked to make decisions to protect your future
livelihood. I am not talking in riddles and I have no secret agenda because
those of you that know me personally will understand that having served for
over thirty years, my main consideration is the well-being of Dial-a-Cab and
its members. Whatever we do in the future, I am confident that our members
will be able to meet the challenge! You have done it before and you will do
it again.
Aubrey Siteman
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