The company is investing a massive $100 Million into new “hubs,” which are meant to make Lyft driving more pleasurable and safer for the drivers. Their new “driver support hubs” will feature perks exclusively available to their drivers. These hubs will offer better maintenance for their vehicles and also try to reduce the charge for regular oil changes. This can make a significant difference in the current situation where fuel prices are skyrocketing. They are also offering car washes and clean bathrooms for a comfortable working environment throughout the day. The “hubs” will also act as a crucial communication gateway between Lyft and its employees, where Lyft can share valuable updates and information to drivers, such as vehicle rentals, information on taxes, and general support for its drivers.
Lyft is offering drivers coffee and snacks to help them recharge between rides with annoying customers. Lyft COO Jon McNeill echoed the company’s message and said that the hubs reflect that “Lyft has been committed to drivers since our beginning,” unlike some of its competitors. This move has been received positively by people on social media, with some pointing out that since the drivers act as independent contractors who shoulder all the expenses associated with their work for the company, such perks are necessary and justified.
Lyft’s Effort to Lower Costs for its Drivers:
Lyft already has 15 support centers across the country, but the company aims to expand its hours of operation, with plans to double the number of employees at those locations. They’ve only been open for around 40 hours a week so far, but Lyft hopes to increase that to roughly 70 hours. According to a Lyft representative, the company’s first plans call for the construction of roughly 30 new state-of-the-art centers “very soon.” To make the experience more comfortable for drivers, Lyft plans to make a communal area, in most major cities, that offers coffee and refreshments and access to clean bathrooms and relaxing spots for a bit of shut-eye. Drivers who visit these Lyft hubs can get information regarding vehicle rentals, tax filings, and general job support, in addition to “heavily reduced” oil changes and car washes.
Lyft and Uber Fight for Driver Loyalty:
Lyft and Uber are both trying to increase driver loyalty by making their apps more user-friendly. ..
Uber does not have “hubs” for its drivers, according to a recent report.
Uber has a large number of support centers, with some being more expansive than others. Some support centers have full services, while others are considered satellite centers with limited staff and amenities. Greenlight Locations are comparable locations where people can acquire vehicle inspections and in-person help for becoming Uber drivers. Uber has 200 Greenlight Locations across the United States and Canada. ..
Lyft plans to triple its driver base in the next five years. This goal is important because it puts the importance of driver loyalty in this market into perspective. The company plans to invest in driver support “hubs” which will help drivers earn more money and maximize their earnings. Given that Lyft drivers are not considered employees, this investment by Lyft is noteworthy. Additionally, Lyft hired Geoffrey Bain, previously of Unilever and Nike, to lead the retail effort.
Conclusion
Lyft is spending $100 million on new driver support hubs in an effort to catch up with its competitors. While these hubs may be helpful for drivers, it’s unclear which company will become the more friendly choice for customers. ..
