ubersafe
From a senior executive outlining a plan* to hire opposition researchers and journalists to dig up dirt on critics, to reports** of poaching drivers and booking and canceling rides with competing car service Lyft, and even being implicated in an alleged kidnapping***, Uber’s image has taken some hits as of late.
While there’s little doubt Uber has an outstanding business model, a shiny new valuation and a recipe for long-term success, it may be all for naught if they can’t rectify a public image that’s currently synonymous with bad PR.
Uber’s answer to their recent woes? A nice batch of goodwill marketing, of course.Being the designated driver and keeping the roads safe is bound to draw the praise of those around you, and Uber’s recent campaign does just that on a larger scale, offering a sidewalk kiosk that functions as a breathalyzer. When users blow through a disposable straw for six seconds, the kiosk analyzes the alcohol content in their breath. If over the legal limit, the kiosk calls an Uber to offer a ride home.[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VECIOprmHMg&w=560&h=315]
"We want to ensure a safe, reliable and affordable ride home is available to everybody, especially late at night when drunk driving is most common and can be avoided," said Ian Black, general manager of Uber Toronto.
While it may take more than a few rides home for the inebriated to repair Uber’s crackling image, this is a good start. Bravo, Uber. Bravo.* outlining a plan** reports*** alleged kidnapping