Just Eat Rider Agreement: A Turning Point for Italy’s Gig Economy
A recent agreement between Just Eat and Italian unions FILT CGIL, FIT-CISL, and UIL Trasporti marks a significant step forward for worker rights in the country’s burgeoning food delivery sector. The deal, renewing an existing agreement through 2027, solidifies the employment status of Just Eat riders as subordinate workers, granting them full benefits under the national logistics contract. This comes amid increasing scrutiny of gig economy practices and concerns about exploitation.
From ‘Fake’ Autonomy to Full Employment Rights
For years, food delivery riders have often been classified as independent contractors, denying them crucial protections like sick leave, holiday pay, and unemployment benefits. Investigations by Italian authorities, spurred by union complaints and legal challenges, have revealed widespread instances of exploitation and unsustainable working conditions. The new agreement directly addresses these issues by formally recognizing riders as employees.
The agreement guarantees riders 14 monthly salaries, paid vacation time, full integration for illness, injury, and maternity leave, and allowances for bereavement and other serious life events. The period to reach full contractual pay and benefits for new hires has been reduced from 24 to 14 months.
Financial Gains and Enhanced Protections
Beyond basic employment rights, the agreement introduces several key improvements to riders’ financial well-being and safety. A performance-based bonus system, tied to objective and mutually agreed-upon metrics, has been established. Just Eat will likewise expand access to company-provided or leased vehicles, offer contributions towards e-bike purchases, and provide legal support in cases of aggression or work-related incidents.
The agreement also clarifies procedures for suspending operations during adverse weather conditions and strengthens local-level contract negotiations. Unions report that the shift towards subordinate employment has already reduced rider turnover, with many now viewing their work with Just Eat as a stable, long-term career.
A Model for the European Gig Economy?
This agreement arrives as the European Union considers new directives aimed at regulating platform work and ensuring better conditions for gig workers across member states. Italian unions believe the Just Eat deal provides a strong model for these upcoming regulations, advocating for policies that put an finish to exploitative practices and level the playing field for companies.
The success of this agreement hinges on its broader application and enforcement. While Just Eat has taken a proactive step, the challenge remains to extend similar protections to riders working for other delivery platforms and across different sectors of the gig economy.
Did you know?
The agreement builds on an initial “bridge” agreement from 2025, now formalized into a standard three-year contract extending to the end of 2027.
The Future of Platform Work in Italy
The Just Eat agreement isn’t just about improving conditions for riders; it’s a signal of a broader shift in how platform work is perceived and regulated. The focus is moving towards ensuring that workers receive the rights and protections they deserve, regardless of their employment classification.
This trend is likely to accelerate as governments across Europe grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by the gig economy. Expect to see increased pressure on platforms to reclassify workers, provide adequate benefits, and ensure fair labor practices. The implementation of the EU directive will be a crucial turning point, potentially reshaping the landscape of platform work for years to come.
Pro Tip
For riders considering legal action regarding their employment status, contacting a union representative or labor lawyer is a crucial first step.
FAQ
Q: What does “subordination” mean in this context?
A: It means riders are legally recognized as employees, not independent contractors, and are entitled to all the rights and benefits that come with employment.
Q: What is the CCNL Logistica?
A: It’s the national collective bargaining agreement for the logistics and transportation sector in Italy, which now applies to Just Eat riders.
Q: How long does it take for new riders to receive full benefits?
A: The agreement reduces the period to 14 months, during which riders receive 90% of the full contractual benefits.
Q: What kind of legal support is provided to riders?
A: Just Eat will cover the legal costs for riders in cases of aggression or other serious incidents related to their work.
Aim for to learn more about worker rights in the gig economy? Visit the Filt Cgil website to stay informed.
