The Frankfurt taxi association positions itself ahead of the municipal election against Uber and Bolt.

Frankfurt's taxi representatives rely on minimum fares and criticize unequal competitive conditions. At the same time they provide political guidance for the 2026 election and point to the taxi industry's electoral potential.

Participants in a taxi demonstration on July 2 in Frankfurt hold placards bearing demands for minimum prices for ride-service providers such as Uber and Bolt. | Photo: M. Tüxen
Participants in a taxi demonstration on July 2 in Frankfurt hold placards bearing demands for minimum prices for ride-service providers such as Uber and Bolt. | Photo: M. Tüxen

The Frankfurt taxi trade is increasingly positioning itself politically in the run-up to the 2026 municipal elections. The reason is the years-long competition with digital ride-service platforms as well as the discussion about possible minimum prices for rental-car providers.

Minimum prices for ride-service providers under review

According to the Frankfurt Taxi Association, intensive lobbying and several taxi strikes have contributed to the city council's consideration of a minimum-price regulation for ride-service providers such as Uber and Bolt. The aim is to stabilise the economic situation of the taxi trade.

The Frankfurt City Magistrate has announced that the introduction of minimum prices will be examined by an expert assessment. The tender for the assessment has been issued. The bids are to be submitted in early January, with the award planned for mid-January. The assessment is to be available by early May 2026.

Competition and the Return-to-Base Obligation

From the taxi association's perspective, taxi companies are under significant price pressure, as ride-hailing providers often offer their services at lower prices. In addition, the lobby group points to possible violations of the statutory return-to-base obligation for rental cars, for example by providers from the surrounding area that operate in the Frankfurt city area all day long.

Political assessment for the municipal election

With regard to the municipal election on March 15, 2026, Taxi Frankfurt has evaluated the parties' election programs and formulated political recommendations for the taxi trade. The FDP is deemed not worth supporting. This is justified by its rejection of minimum prices and its stance on the abolition of the taxi tariff.

The CDU is regarded as neutral by the Taxi Association. The Greens are regarded as open and constructive, while at the same time concerns are raised about burdens on the taxi trade in connection with the mobility transition. A representative of the Taxi Association is himself running for the SPD.

Mobilization of the electorate

The Taxi Association calls on taxi drivers to actively engage with the election platforms and to make use of the options for cumulation and panachage when casting their ballot. According to their own statements, taxi drivers and their families in Frankfurt represent a significant number of potential votes. (Source: Frankfurter Neue Presse)

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