Uber strike planned for today
Uber drivers, including those in Greater Manchester, are going on a 24-hour strike to protest high commission rates (up to 40%) and poor working conditions. The strike is organized by the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB), with drivers claiming financial hardship and mental health struggles. Uber defends its practices, citing worker benefits and engagement initiatives. The strike coincides with Mayor Andy Burnham's campaign for taxi trade reforms.
Uber Drivers Strike Over High Commission Rates and Low Pay
Drivers for ride-hailing apps Uber, Bolt, and Addison Lee are staging a 24-hour “global strike” starting at 7 a.m. today, with protests planned in Manchester city center this afternoon.
The action, organized by the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB), comes after Uber confirmed it can take up to 40% commission on some fares.
Drivers Struggling to Make Ends Meet
One Manchester driver, who asked to be called Cosmin, said he’s striking because he can’t afford basic living expenses.
“Between 4 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. one day this week, I made just £71,” he explained. “After fuel and insurance costs, that’s barely enough to survive.”
Cosmin claims Uber shows customers one price while charging drivers different amounts, with commission rates sometimes reaching 40%.
Union Warns of Industry-Wide Problems
Nader Awaad, Chair of the IWGB Private Hire Drivers Branch, described the situation as desperate.
“Drivers worldwide aren’t living - we’re just surviving,” he said. “Many work unhealthy hours trying to make ends meet, leading to depression, physical pain, and damaged family relationships.”
Company Defends Practices
Uber maintains it has improved driver conditions, noting it was the first ride-hailing company to classify drivers as workers, providing benefits including:
- National living wage
- Holiday pay
- Pension contributions
- Childcare vouchers
- Sick pay coverage
A company spokesperson said drivers can see their earnings breakdown and that average weekly commission rates range from 20-30%, though they admitted rates can reach 40% on popular routes like airport trips.
Calls for Industry Reform
The strike coincides with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s campaign to reform the taxi industry. His proposals include:
- Cracking down on “out-of-area” drivers who obtain licenses in easier councils but work elsewhere
- Extending VAT exemptions for disabled-accessible taxis
- Continuing plug-in taxi grants until 2027
- Reducing VAT on public EV charging to 5%
Trafford Council CEO Sara Todd confirmed a 12-week consultation on these proposals is launching soon.
Bolt and Addison Lee did not respond to requests for comment on the strike action.
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