Uber Eats will cease employing freelancers for food deliveries in the Netherlands starting next year. Instead, the company will transition to using temporary workers.
The change is driven by "developments in Dutch legislation and regulations" concerning flexible work arrangements, Uber Eats explained. From January 1, the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration will enforce stricter rules against bogus self-employment.
In a case last year, the court determined that individuals working for Deliveroo under the guise of self-employment were actually employees. Although Deliveroo has since exited the Dutch market, the ruling has set a precedent impacting Uber Eats.
Freelancers currently delivering for Uber Eats can continue working through employment agencies such as Adecco and Randstad. By registering, they will gain benefits like holiday pay, greater protections, and necessary delivery equipment.
Uber's ride-hailing service will remain unchanged for now. Drivers using the Uber app in the Netherlands will continue operating as independent contractors.
Read on: in Dutch