Uber has agreed to recognise a union in a groundbreaking move with potential implications for millions of gig economy workers.
The ride-hailing app has struck a deal with the GMB, meaning up to 70,000 drivers in the UK can be represented.
Mick Rix, the GMB’s national officer, said: “History has been made.
"This shows gig economy companies don’t have to be a wild west frontier.”
What is your view? Have your say in the comment section
Under the collective bargaining agreement, the union will represent drivers across the UK.
They will still get to choose if, when and where they drive.
It comes after Uber pledged in March to guarantee drivers at least the National Living Wage and holiday pay.
The US business had lost a five-year legal battle with drivers who claimed their employment status was wrongly classified.
GMB regional manager Jamie Heywood said: “Whilst Uber and GMB may not seem like obvious allies, we’ve always agreed that drivers must come first.”
Like news? Sign up to one of the Mirror's newsletters
This is just for starters
- Comment, by Mick Rix, national officer, GMB
After nine campaigning years we’re proud that the GMB will now be officially recognised as the only UK trade union for Uber drivers.
Our fight has seen Uber change the way they view their workforce.
But this is only the beginning.
There are lots of firms in the gig economy who are exploiting workers.
We are now on your case.
