Deliveroo has signed a “landmark” charter with the GMB Union, “pledging respect” between restaurants and riders.
The food delivery service’s agreement follows suit from other restaurants and retailers who have already signed the new charter, including Morrisons, The Co-op, and Whole Foods.
Features of the new Respect Charter include a commitment to communicate openly, access to facilities and collaboration to boost operational efficiency.
Deliveroo senior vice president of care and rider Camilia Kater said: “This charter is the first of its kind across our industry and demonstrates the positive impact working hand in hand with the GMB Union has had.
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“Our partnership with the GMB is already delivering for our riders and through jointly creating the Respect Charter we have solidified our commitment to create a positive and supportive environment for riders and merchants.”
It comes after GMB and Deliveroo stuck a similar ruling in 2022, allowing self-employed riders guaranteed earnings, representation and benefits.
GMB Deliveroo lead Tom Warnett added: “Everyone has the right to go about their work safely and be treated with respect.
“Time is money for couriers and a commitment to reducing waiting time is really important. GMB union is involved in the gig economy to bring the standards up.
“We will do this by making sure couriers are paid fairly, treated with respect and maintain the flexibility that they came into the industry for.”
Last year, the Supreme court ruled that Deliveroo riders are not workers and will therefore not allowed to form a trade union for the purpose of collective bargaining.
