18/09/2017
In a significant move to adapt to the evolving economic landscape, Blueline Taxis, the North East's largest taxi firm, has launched an innovative new delivery service named "Grab." This venture aims to bridge the gap between local businesses and their customers, leveraging the company's extensive driver network and operational capacity. The "Grab" app and website, unveiled this week, represent a substantial investment and a strategic pivot for the family-run business, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the regional economy during challenging times.
Tom Shanks, Blueline's Finance Director, highlighted the vision behind "Grab," describing it as a "family-run, north-east version of Deliveroo or Uber Eats." However, the service differentiates itself by exclusively utilising Blueline's own taxi fleet and focusing on the region's rich food and drink sector. Beyond culinary delights, "Grab" also facilitates the delivery of a diverse range of products, including skincare items, pet food, protein bars, and educational "little learner" boxes. This broad scope underscores the company's ambition to cater to a wide array of consumer needs.
The investment in "Grab" currently stands at approximately £100,000, with projections suggesting it could blossom into a multi-million-pound enterprise. Shanks acknowledged the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the taxi industry, noting a significant reduction in passenger journeys. "It has been a massive challenge to our business and we’ve had to adapt," he stated. Blueline Taxis, accustomed to completing over 85,000 journeys weekly across a vast operational area from north of Blyth to Hartlepool, recognised its inherent logistical capabilities. "No-one covers the area north of Blyth to Hartlepool as well as we do, so we thought why can’t we deliver products as well as people? We have the capacity to make thousands of deliveries every day." "Grab" is presented as the direct response to this challenge, a means to ensure that local produce and products reach customers who are unable to leave their homes, while also serving as a vital support system for isolated individuals.
Demonstrating a strong sense of community responsibility, Blueline Taxis has already distributed £25,000 worth of vouchers to NHS and other essential COVID-19 workers. Furthermore, 500 custom-made gift boxes were delivered to hospitals and ambulance stations as a token of gratitude for the tireless efforts of NHS staff. The positive reception of the chocolate in these boxes was particularly noted.
The "Grab" platform has already secured partnerships with over 20 prominent regional brands. These include well-known names such as Dicksons, the Vaulkhard Group, Marlish Water, Oatein, Tyne Bank Brewery, Bowers Butchers, Café 1901, J.R. Holland, Sambuca, The Newcastle Gin Co, Clearly Drinks, Newcastle Skin Clinic, My Pet HQ, Templeman Retail, and Hoults Yard-based Full Circle Brew Co and The Pip Stop. The company continues to onboard new providers and suppliers daily, expressing satisfaction with the breadth and calibre of businesses joining the initiative.
The history of Blueline Taxis is deeply rooted in the North East. Founded in 1958 by Tom Shanks' grandparents, Colin and Audrey Shanks, the company's origins are a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. Colin Shanks, a World War Two veteran who famously escaped capture multiple times, met Audrey in London. After running a tobacconist shop, they returned home and, through diligent saving, purchased an Austin Morris with a distinctive blue 'coach' line trim, marking the inception of their taxi business.
In line with its ethos of giving back, Blueline's "Grab" venture has also forged a partnership with The Greggs Foundation. This charitable trust is dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged individuals within local communities. The collaboration signifies Blueline's commitment to social responsibility.
Furthermore, "Grab" is receiving support from Food and Drink North East (FADNE), an organisation actively championing the region's food and drink sector. This alliance will feature FADNE's "Local Heroes" food boxes, curated from local producers and suppliers, available for same or next-day delivery through the "Grab" platform. Chris Jewitt, Founder and CEO of FADNE, lauded Blueline as an "iconic, successful and innovative regional company," emphasising the symbolic importance of this partnership for trade initiatives within the North East. He believes this collaboration is crucial for the survival and growth of the region's food and drink sector beyond the current crisis and is confident it will ensure the success of the "Local Heroes" campaign.
Tom Shanks expressed his delight at the involvement of Chris and FADNE, acknowledging their unparalleled expertise in the regional sector. He elaborated on the customer experience with "Grab," explaining that payments will be processed via credit/debit card or Apple Pay. Blueline will then coordinate with the supplier to arrange delivery, ensuring a single, streamlined payment process. Shanks also suggested that customers would find "Grab" to be more affordable than some of its national competitors.
The launch of "Grab" by Blueline Taxis represents more than just a new business venture; it is a strategic adaptation to a changing market, a commitment to supporting local businesses, and a demonstration of corporate social responsibility. By leveraging its established infrastructure and embracing innovation, Blueline is not only navigating the current economic challenges but also positioning itself for future growth and continuing to serve the North East community in new and vital ways.
### Key Features of Blueline's "Grab" Service:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Service Type | Local product and food delivery |
| Platform | Dedicated app and website |
| Delivery Fleet | Utilises Blueline Taxis' own drivers and vehicles |
| Product Range | Food, drink, skincare, pet food, educational items, and more |
| Regional Focus | Strong emphasis on North East businesses and producers |
| Payment Methods | Credit/Debit Card, Apple Pay |
| Partnerships | Includes Dicksons, Vaulkhard Group, FADNE, and The Greggs Foundation |
| Community Support | Voucher distribution to NHS workers and gift boxes for hospitals |
### Frequently Asked Questions:
Does Blueline Taxis have a Grab app?
Yes, Blueline Taxis has launched a new delivery app and website called "Grab."
What kind of products can be delivered through Grab?
Grab delivers a variety of products, including food and drink from local businesses, skincare, pet food, and educational boxes.
Who is behind the "Grab" service?
The "Grab" service is operated by Blueline Taxis, a family-run business in the North East of England.
How does "Grab" compare to other delivery services like Deliveroo or Uber Eats?
Tom Shanks described it as a North East version of these services, focusing on local businesses and using their own taxi fleet. They also aim to be more affordable than some national competitors.
What is the investment in "Grab"?
Blueline Taxis has invested approximately £100,000 into the "Grab" venture so far.
Has Blueline Taxis supported the community during COVID-19?
Yes, they have distributed vouchers to NHS and essential workers and delivered gift boxes to hospitals and ambulance stations.
Are there any specific local businesses involved with Grab?
Yes, over 20 regional brands have signed up, including Dicksons, Tyne Bank Brewery, and Bowers Butchers.
What is the partnership with FADNE?
Blueline's "Grab" is partnering with Food and Drink North East (FADNE) to offer "Local Heroes" food boxes for delivery, supporting the regional food and drink community.
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