Perhaps there is no technology start-up company with its apps downloaded over smartphone as much as that of UBER, which allows drivers to connect with potential passengers through a smartphone application. As much as the Internet has revolutionized the world, so also has it put so many people out of employment, such as that experienced by a number of cab drivers in some countries. Last year over 10,000 taxi drivers protested across the European Union over UBER’s intrusion into their bread and butters.
At a technology conference in Munich, Germany on 18th January, CEO, Travis Kalanick sought to find a way to mend the fence and work closely with regulators in Europe. “We want to make 2015 the year when we create new partnerships with European cities,” said Mr. Kalanick, who added that he expects to spend more time in Europe this year. “If we can make those partnerships happen, we could create 50,000 new jobs,” He continued.
The company has operated in the African continent with its first entry being in Johannesburg and later Cape Town, Durban, Lagos and recently Nairobi. The San Francisco based company was founded in 2009 and now operates in about 270 cities and recently valued by investors to be worth $40 billion.
