Status: 08.12.2023, 17:53 PM
By: Nina Bautz
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When public transport breaks down or goes on strike, taxi companies benefit. We spoke to the CEO of Taxi-München eG, Thomas Kroker, about the extraordinary days.
Mr. Kroker, first the snow chaos, now the rail strike. Your company can't complain about a lack of work right now, can it?
Thomas Kroker: No, we really can't. I've been with the company for 24 years – but I've never experienced anything like last weekend.
Thomas Kroker reports on turbulent days. © Sleep/Imago
What was the demand like?
We must have had 30 to 40 times as many inquiries as usual on Saturday. At times, clusters of 200 people were waiting at the main station. We have deployed all available cars and strengthened the taxi center with employees from the home office. We gave it our all – but at some point we were just at the limit.
Snow chaos in Munich: Especially old and sick people call a taxi
Who mainly used the taxis?
Many elderly and sick. This was a safety challenge when these customers had to get on and off in snow and ice. The busiest route was to Nuremberg, because trains ran there. Between 400 and 500 trips. We were often on the road on behalf of the railway because customers had a voucher.
What impact do you expect from the rail strike?
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It's bound to get crowded around the stations. But it won't be that extreme. The snow chaos has affected almost all Munich residents, the strike primarily affects travelers.
"Nevertheless, we are far away from pre-Corona levels"
Nevertheless, the taxi industry seems to be the winner these days.
Of course, we're doing a good business right now. That's a big plus in sales that we're taking with us. In addition, there are the Christmas parties, which are especially noticeable during the week. Nevertheless, we are far away from the pre-Corona level, we only make about 75 to 80 percent of sales. It's good to have intense days like the one you've just had, when you get more into it again.
Since 1 September, there have been fixed prices for Munich customers for pre-booked trips. Also to catch up with competitors like Uber?
This is really well received by customers. Slowly, we are also getting more bookings. But this is a slow process.
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