Uber and GMB Trade Union Agreement: A New Era for UK Drivers

LONDON (AP) — Uber has formally recognized the GMB trade union in the United Kingdom, allowing it to represent 70,000 drivers across the country. This agreement provides a structured way for drivers to negotiate working conditions, though union membership remains optional. Drivers must actively sign up to benefit from GMB’s representation.

The decision follows a UK Supreme Court ruling that classified Uber drivers as workers rather than self-employed. This landmark judgment granted them rights such as minimum wage, holiday pay, and pension contributions. However, concerns about Uber’s treatment of drivers and data transparency persist, with campaigners urging the company to disclose data to tackle exploitation. The ruling has influenced broader conversations about labor rights in the taxi and ride-hailing industry.

Mick Rix, GMB National Official, commented:

"History has been made. This agreement shows gig economy companies don’t have to be a wild west on the untamed frontier of employment rights."

Concerns Remain Among Industry Stakeholders

Despite this progress, not all unions are fully supportive. The App Drivers & Couriers Union (ADCU), which played a key role in challenging Uber’s employment model, has expressed reservations about the agreement.

An ADCU representative stated:

"Overall, this is a step in the right direction, but there are significant obstacles, including disagreements over how Uber calculates minimum wage and holiday pay."

The ADCU also warned that Uber’s motivations remain questionable, suggesting the company may be using this deal to weaken worker bargaining power rather than strengthen it.