Transport for London’s decision to strip Uber of its licence to operate in the capital has set off alarm bells at Tesco, amid reports that the supermarket giant is reviewing its Clubcard partnership with the firm just three months after saying it was “delighted” to have it onboard.
The partnership – revealed when Tesco relaunched the Clubcard scheme in July – allows loyalty scheme members to use their points to pay for journeys using the Uber app.
At the time, Tesco chief customer officer Alessandra Bellini said: “We’ve listened to customers and we’re delighted to have…added to our list of partners. Clubcard is the most rewarding loyalty scheme in the sector and we’re looking forward to seeing how customers respond to the improvements.”
Traditional taxi drivers did not respond well, however, and threatened to boycott Tesco, citing concerns over regulation, adequate insurance cover and a lack of topographical knowledge.
And now with TfL branding Uber “not fit and proper to hold a private hire licence”, Tesco bosses are said to be “closely monitoring” the situation, although no final decision has been made.
It is already facing a backlash from customers on social media, with tweets including “So TfL have refused Uber a licence on safety grounds in London. Let’s see if you really care about your customers” and “@Tesco you still think your partners #uber was a good idea?”.
Tesco declined to comment on the review.
Related stories
Tesco relaunches Clubcard as Uber joins partner scheme
Uber sues Fetch Media over ‘non-existent’ online ads
