GWU: Same Work. Same Roads. Same Rights.

13 Jul 2026 - Home | News | Politics | The Union | Trade

The food courier sector cannot continue to operate on uncertainty, precarious employment and working conditions that leave workers vulnerable.

Kevin Abela – GWU Deputy Secretary General

The collective agreements signed in the food courier sector are far more than documents on paper. They represent a clear commitment that this industry can no longer be built on insecurity, exploitation and conditions that leave workers without the protection they deserve.

For far too long, many food couriers have provided an essential service in every kind of weather, at every hour of the day, yet they have not received the respect, security and recognition that their work merits. The General Workers’ Union listened to these workers, organised them and worked tirelessly to begin changing this reality.

Today, there are operators who have taken a responsible step forward. They have accepted that the sector must be properly regulated, that workers deserve a guaranteed basic wage and clear conditions of employment, and that workers’ voices must be recognised through collective representation.

But we must also be clear: this is only the beginning.

This very week, the GWU has once again been informed of cases of abuse that continue to exist within parts of the sector. While we will not name companies at this stage, our message is direct: those who believe they can continue operating by keeping workers in unfair and exploitative conditions should understand that this can no longer be tolerated.

It is unacceptable that responsible employers who invest in decent working conditions should find themselves at a competitive disadvantage, while others seek to compete by depressing workers’ wages and conditions. It is equally unacceptable that some companies embrace their social responsibility while others continue to operate outside a fair and responsible framework.

The GWU will not accept a two-tier workforce within the same industry. A food courier performing the same job, travelling the same roads and working under the same pressures should never receive less protection, fewer rights or less dignity than anyone else.

Our message is clear: every operator in this sector must shoulder its responsibilities. Profit cannot continue to be built on poor working conditions. Fair competition is not about who pays the least or offers the weakest protection. Fair competition means clear rules, decent wages and respect for every worker.

For this reason, the GWU will continue pressing for every company operating in the sector to meet fair and responsible employment standards. We will continue organising workers, engaging with the authorities and insisting that the framework now being established is not undermined by those who choose to remain outside it.

This is an important moment for the entire sector.

For workers.

For dignity at work.

For a genuine level playing field.

Same work.

Same roads.

Same rights.