Malta’s Food Couriers Secure Historic Collective Agreement

Food Couriers in Malta Score a Victory

In a bustling street of Birkirkara, just off Triq San Giljan, a group of food couriers huddled around a makeshift table, their faces a mix of exhaustion and determination. They were not discussing delivery routes or the day’s busiest restaurants, but something far more significant – their rights.

From Chaos to Collective Agreement

For years, food couriers in Malta have navigated the streets, rain or shine, delivering hot meals to hungry customers. But their working conditions were anything but appetizing. With no clear contracts, unpredictable hours, and minimal pay, they were a vulnerable workforce, often exploited and underpaid.

That was until they decided to take matters into their own hands. United under the banner of the Malta Food Delivery Workers’ Association (MFDWA), they began negotiations with the country’s leading food delivery platforms. After months of talks, they’ve finally secured a historic collective agreement.

What the Agreement Means for Workers

The agreement, a first of its kind in Malta, sets clear rights and working conditions for food couriers. Here’s what they’ve won:

• Minimum Wage: Couriers will now earn a minimum wage of €8 per hour, a significant increase from their previous rates.
• Fixed Hours: They will have the right to request fixed working hours, providing much-needed stability and work-life balance.
• Safety Measures: The platforms have agreed to provide safety equipment, such as reflective vests and helmets, and to cover medical expenses in case of work-related accidents.
• Grievance Mechanism: A formal process has been established to address grievances, ensuring couriers’ voices are heard and respected.

But the fight doesn’t stop here. The MFDWA is already , pushing for better pay during peak hours, improved tips systems, and better training opportunities. “This is just the beginning,” says MFDWA spokesperson, Maria Azzopardi. “We’ve shown that when we stand together, we can make a difference.”

As the sun sets over Birkirkara, the couriers pack up their table, their faces now wearing smiles of accomplishment. They’ve turned a chaotic situation into a collective victory, setting a new standard for workers in Malta’s gig economy.