Malta 'Historic' collective agreement for food couriers sets clear rights for workers
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Malta’s Food Couriers Secure Historic Rights with New Agreement

ByHot Malta

Food Couriers in Malta Gain Historic Rights with New Collective Agreement

In a significant step forward for workers’ rights, food couriers in Malta have secured a historic collective agreement, setting clear boundaries and benefits for the first time. The agreement, signed between the Malta Union of Workers (UHM) and local food delivery platforms, comes after months of negotiations and marks a turning point in the gig economy’s scene on the island.

What Does the Agreement Entail?

The collective agreement, which covers around 300 couriers, introduces a range of improvements to their working conditions. Key provisions include:

    • Minimum wage: Couriers will now earn a minimum wage of €8.50 per hour, plus €0.50 per delivery.
    • Rest breaks: Couriers are entitled to a 15-minute rest break after every two hours of work.
    • Maximum working hours: The agreement caps couriers’ working hours at 10 hours per day and 48 hours per week.
    • Insurance: Couriers will be covered by insurance during their working hours.
    • Grievance mechanism: A new grievance mechanism has been established to address any issues or disputes that may arise.

Local Impact and Next Steps

This agreement is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the importance of workers’ voices. It sets a precedent for other gig workers in Malta and sends a clear message that their rights matter. The UHM has already started negotiations with other platforms, aiming to extend these benefits to more workers.

For couriers like Matthew*, a 27-year-old who has been delivering food in Malta for three years, this agreement means more than just better pay and working conditions. “It’s about respect and recognition,” he says. “We’re not just numbers on a screen. We’re workers with rights, and this agreement proves it.”

As Malta continues to of the gig economy, this collective agreement serves as a reminder that progress is possible when workers, unions, and employers come together. With more negotiations on the horizon, the future looks brighter for Malta’s gig workers.

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