CityFleet Networks acquires Chester-based KingKabs and Abbey Taxis

CityFleet Network has strengthened its presence in the north-west by acquiring the company that runs two major private hire fleets in Chester.

In a letter to drivers, CityFleet Networks Limited confirmed that it had acquired Vedamain Ltd, which trades as KingKabs and Abbey Taxis, two long-running Chester taxi businesses.

KingKabs was established in Chester in 1968 and also provides services in Ellesmere Port on the Wirral. It describes itself as “Cheshire’s largest private hire taxi service” and has a fleet of more than 500 vehicles. Abbey Taxis has served the area for more than 40 years and has a fleet of 140 vehicles.

In the letter to drivers, CityFleet regional general manager Karen Long wrote: “We would like to take the opportunity to welcome Drivers to the Group and look forward to developing the business further in the years to come.” She added that CityFleet would be asking drivers for feedback and suggestions on how the current service can be improved.

CityFleet is owned by Singapore-based transport giant Comfort Delgro. It is already a major player in Merseyside, operating the ComCab taxi fleet in Liverpool. In 2020, it acquired Argyle Satellite, the biggest private hire fleet in the Wirral, in a seven-figure deal. CityFleet also operates black cabs as ComCab in Aberdeen, and provides coach hire services under the Westbus UK brand.