On Friday afternoon, a group of delivery drivers held a spontaneous protest against the Wolt delivery platform. RTL confirmed the existence of a WhatsApp group titled "Manifestation contre wolt" that included around 160 drivers.
As a result, some Wolt deliveries appeared to be taking significantly longer than usual on Thursday. According to one driver who spoke to RTL, some deliveries may even have been cancelled altogether.
The driver explained that the protest was triggered due to Wolt once again lowering the rates paid to delivery drivers.
A message from Wolt's management to some drivers reportedly demonstrated a willingness to engage in dialogue. Management is said to have proposed discussions with a number of representatives about the changes to the rates, stressing that drivers' concerns are being taken seriously.
Other Wolt delivery drivers present at a fast-food restaurant in Luxembourg City were unaware of the protest. The restaurant's manager said no delivery orders had been refused so far.
The drivers, who are often self-employed or sometimes work under contract, are in some cases continuing to deliver through other platforms.
The total number of drivers working for Wolt is not known.
A Wolt spokesperson confirmed that the company is in direct contact with the affected drivers and has already invited them to talks. Feedback from drivers is being taken seriously and the company wants to better understand their concerns, the spokesperson said.
While not directly addressing the rates, Wolt added that "earnings can vary from week to week because courier work offers flexibility, allowing people to choose when and where they deliver. Demand levels, weather conditions, local events, and the number of couriers online at a given time can all influence earnings opportunities."
Despite the strike, the company said it does not expect any major disruption to its operations.
As a reaction to the strike, the Left issued a press release calling for more legislation for delivery platforms. The boycott clearly showed it was high time to protect workers through legal means and prevent companies from exploiting them, the party said.
In their statement, the Left emphasised that these platforms often employ vulnerable people who are unable to obtain work contracts and are not insured in the event of an accident or illness. The party added that they had submitted a proposal to the Chamber to work on collective rights for delivery drivers.
Full statement (in Luxembourgish / French):
