The limits of fissurisation in platform work: the case of food delivery services

Anke Hassel

Chapter 15 in The Elgar Companion to Regulating Platform Work, 2025, pp 272-285 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter summarises different aspects of platform work in the food delivery sector, highlighting unique characteristics and challenges. Food delivery platform work is described as a niche market, combining tech firms’ market creation with the basis of marginalised workers lacking social capital to offer low-value-added online-governed services. Workers can enter easily, without formal skills, making the work accessible to students and migrant workers. Profits are generally low: the industry's value lies in tech applications and data collection on consumer habits. Despite difficulties in mobilisation and self-regulation, there have been protests, indicating the potential for worker organising. The EU Platform Work Directive aims to improve working conditions, but faces challenges in enforcement. Ultimately, food delivery work may remain low value, raising questions about its sustainability amid demographic changes and labour shortages. The chapter suggests discussions beyond labour conditions to address market distortions and societal implications of food delivery services.

Keywords: Regulation; New forms of work; Employment model; Working conditions; Mobilisation; Algorithmic management (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035321131
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