Overview

AJT Hire was a Liverpool-based vehicle leasing and rental business supporting taxi and private-hire drivers across Merseyside and the North West of England, founded by Adam Thornhill.

The business was set up in the late 2010s to meet local demand for flexible vehicle options within the taxi and private hire market, particularly for drivers who needed short or medium-term access to cars and other vehicles without financial commitment. 

Market & Customers

AJT Hire primarily served licensed drivers who required regular, reliable access to compliant vehicles on a temporary or rolling basis. This included drivers who did not want to commit to vehicle ownership or finance arrangements, as well as those working in the area on a short-term basis.

At the time, many drivers needed temporary vehicle solutions – whether to replace a vehicle being repaired or for other professional and personal needs. 

All vehicles supplied met local authority licensing standards and insurance requirements for taxi and private-hire use. 

Services

AJT Hire provided a range of leasing and rental services tailored to the taxi and private-hire sector, such as:

• Taxi and private-hire vehicle leasing
• Short-term and rolling vehicle rental agreements
• Fleet supply for licensed drivers
• Vehicle replacement and swap services

Business Model

The business operated on a straightforward rental-based model, generating income through weekly and monthly vehicle hire fees. This approach allowed drivers to access licensed vehicles without taking on the costs and risks of ownership, while remaining compliant with local regulations. 

Market Context

AJT Hire operated during a period of significant change within the UK taxi industry. Increased regulation, rising vehicle and operating costs, and competition from platforms like Uber and other similar ride-hailing apps placed pressure on operators across the sector. 

These conditions contributed to consolidation within the market and influenced the decision to cease operations in the mid-2020s.

Related Press

During its period of operation, AJT Hire and related ventures received coverage in local and national publications. Travel Weekly reported on Source Travel’s football sponsorship and launch of its technology division, while Gulf Today referred to Relate Consultancies as a partner in supporting British expats relocating to the UAE.

This coverage provides a wider public context for business activity connected to AJT Hire during this period.