Glasgow Taxis is rolling out the new shirts, ties, polo shirts and jackets to all of its 2,000 black cab drivers over the next year.

A total of 500 drivers have already got the uniforms and the company says it will eventually be made compulsory.

As Scotland’s biggest taxi firm, it is spending £50,000 on the clothing, which it says will make drivers easily recognisable.

As well as being branded with the Glasgow Taxi design, the outfits feature the Glasgow: Scotland With Style logo, thanks to sponsorship from Glasgow City Marketing Bureau.

Terry Devine, director of Glasgow Taxis, said the uniforms would make it easier for customers and corporate clients to spot drivers and will ensure they look smart for tourists ­visiting the city.

He said: “It’s wonderful. The most important thing is they’ll be recognised at all times. So far the reaction from the drivers has been very good.

“We tried it a couple of years ago but didn’t put much emphasis on it. We’ve had more people asking us for it, like the health board and hotels.”

Scott Taylor, chief executive of Glasgow City Marketing Bureau, said the uniform was important as cab drivers are often the first and last part of a visitor’s experience in Glasgow.

He said: “It seems a natural partnership for Glasgow: Scotland with Style to be associated with Glasgow Taxis.

“It’s important the brand is recognised with quality and it’s an ideal opportunity for us to reach out to our customers.

“The taxi drivers are the first and last impression of the city.”

The uniforms consist of shirts which come in blue and white and can be worn with a tie in Glasgow tartan, or more casual polo shirts. A black jacket is also on offer.

The uniforms have been ­welcomed by drivers.

Eileen Woodmore, 51, from Calton, who has been a cab driver for 21 years, said: “I think it will just let everybody know exactly who we are. I find it hard being a woman – people do not expect a woman taxi driver so it’s handy!

“It’s lovely, a nice shade and nice material.”

Scott Chalmers, 34, from Burnside, said: “I like it. People know who you are and it saves you using your own clothes at work as well.”

Steven Whalen, 24, said: “It gives us a more professional look.”

Glasgow Taxis is the fourth largest taxi firm in the UK and was created in 1995 after a merger of three companies.

Source: Evening Times, Scotland, December 8, 2009