Drivers for food delivery platforms including Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats plan to strike on Valentine’s Day to protest poor payment and working conditions, from 5 to 10pm.
The Wednesday’s five-hour walkout is being organised by the grassroots organisation, Delivery Job UK, which claims to have the support of 3000 couriers.
The group said on X on Sunday that the industrial action “highlights the growing tensions between gig economy workers and the platforms they work for. As consumers, it’s crucial to consider the conditions under which our conveniences are delivered”.
This Valentine's Day strike highlights the growing tensions between gig economy workers and the platforms they work for. As consumers, it's crucial to consider the conditions under which our conveniences are delivered. #SupportGigWorkers
— Delivery Job UK (@deliveryjobuk) February 11, 2024
A delivery driver spoke to City News, claiming the ongoing disagreement has been caused by a dispute over how drivers for these services are classified, and the pay and benefits they receive as a result. He said, “The living cost in UK is high, the fuel price is high, the traffic is high but only our wages are low. Its not fair.”
The strike will likely affect thousands of delivery couriers, who normally compete across multiple apps, but this time will be refusing to take orders.
It’s already looking to be a lean year ahead for the restaurant and hospitality sector, and the traditional romantic Valentine’s Day meal spend may suffer in kind. Despite this, the priority for delivery riders is to make their voices heard.
