Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:UBER) is recruiting drivers across B.C., as it plans an expansion in the province outside of the major centres.
The ride-hailing service is currently only available in Metro Vancouver, Victoria and Kelowna. But starting in 2025, the company plans to expand its service throughout B.C., and is now looking for drivers.
Uber received approval from the B.C. Passenger Transportation Board in May 2023 to operate across B.C., and started expanding its services outside of Metro Vancouver to Victoria and Kelowna. The company now hopes to recruit drivers anywhere it can in B.C.
“While the app will be available across the entire province, rides will only be available where drivers actively sign up and go online to do trips,” said Michael van Hemmen, Uber’s general manager of mobility, in a statement. “We’re looking for drivers from Nanaimo to Fort St. John and everywhere in between.”
The expansion plan is being welcomed by the B.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association (BCRFA) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
Many revellers in places like Vancouver use taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber to get home after a night out.
“Uber’s rideshare has contributed significantly to our industry, giving British Columbians the option of a sober ride home after enjoying a meal or night out,” said BCFRA president Ian Tostenson in a statement.
“Uber has also been a game-changer for those working late-night hours in the hospitality industry, helping them get home safely after their shifts. We are thrilled to hear Uber will be expanding across the province. The addition of Uber in smaller regions of B.C. will be a welcome addition to tourism, the B.C. wine industry, and an incredible convenience for families.”
“Ridesharing has been vital in the fight against impaired driving and soon more British Columbians will have this transportation option to get them home safely,” said MADD Canada CEO Steve Sullivan in a statement. “No matter how you get home, we are proud supporters of all rides that get you there safely.”
Hope Air is also welcoming the expansion.
"Hope Air assists thousands of individuals and families across B.C. each year, with medical travel support to reach hospitals far from home,” said Hope Air CEO Mark Rubinstein in a statement.
“Together with our airline, hotel and meals programs, Uber ground transportation is a trusted and highly valued program, delivered through Hope Air for patients arriving at airports then travelling safely to their hospital appointments. With Uber’s expansion across B.C., Hope Air will be able to deliver better health outcomes and ensure equitable access to health care for people living in underserved communities across the province."
