Delivery Drivers Struggle to Meet Minimum Wage Amidst Falling Earnings
A recent survey conducted by the Employment Platforms Social Relations Authority (ARPE) has revealed alarming trends in the earnings of independent delivery drivers in France. Many workers are earning less than the minimum hourly wage of €11.65, particularly when factoring in waiting times between orders. The survey indicates that average earnings for delivery personnel at major platforms are significantly below this threshold, with Uber Eats drivers making an average of only €10.1 per hour and Stuart drivers earning €11.3. In contrast, Deliveroo and Delicity offer higher gross earnings of €16.8 and €14, respectively.
The report highlights a concerning decline in average income for delivery workers since 2021, regardless of the platform. Self-employed delivery drivers face additional financial burdens, including vehicle maintenance, insurance, and social contributions, which further erode their take-home pay. Joël Blondel, the general director of ARPE, emphasizes the need for dialogue among platforms and professional unions to address these issues.
In response to these challenges, delivery platforms have implemented a minimum income guarantee of €11.75 gross per hour, effective from 2023. However, this does not account for waiting times, which can significantly affect overall earnings. Deliveroo has reported a slight decrease in average revenue per ride, from €5.60 to €5.50, but claims that waiting times have decreased by 18%, suggesting that overall remuneration remains stable.
The CGT union has called for greater transparency regarding the algorithms used to calculate delivery earnings, as current negotiations between platforms and delivery workers have stalled over remuneration discussions. Grégoire Leclercq, president of the National Federation of Self-Employed Entrepreneurs (FNAE), has also raised concerns about the increasing number of delivery companies, which could further drive down average income levels.
Additionally, the report sheds light on the earnings of chauffeur-driven passenger vehicle drivers (VTC), noting varied income trends across platforms. While some drivers experienced a drop in earnings, others saw increases. In December 2023, VTC platforms reached agreements to raise driver remuneration to a minimum of €9 net per trip, €1 per kilometer traveled, and €30 per hour of activity.
