New collective agreement means food couriers will be ensured fixed salaries, paid sick leave

The General Workers’ Union (GWU) and the Malta Delivery Fleet Operators Association (MDFOA) have signed a series of collective agreements to improve conditions for food couriers.

The agreements follow several months of negotiations between the two parties and build on a memorandum of understanding signed in November last year, in which both sides committed to strengthening worker protections in the food delivery sector.

Under the new agreements, food couriers will move from commission-based pay to a fixed monthly salary. The measures also introduce paid annual leave, paid sick leave, overtime pay, and premium rates in line with the collective agreement.

Workers will no longer be required to cover the costs of uniforms, motorcycles, or other equipment needed for their work. In addition, wages will be paid directly into employees’ bank accounts, ending cash payments.

(Photo: GWU)

GWU Deputy Secretary General Kevin Abela described the agreement as a significant development for the sector, saying it recognises the need for improved dignity and protection for workers in platform-based employment. He said the union will continue working to ensure the agreements are implemented effectively and extended to more workers in the industry.

MDFOA President Jusef Meli said the agreements are a step forward for the sector. He added that Malta would be the first EU member state to introduce a protection mechanism of this kind for food couriers operating through digital platforms.

Meli encouraged other operators in the sector to join the initiative to ensure consistent standards across the industry.

(Photo: GWU)

The signing ceremony was attended by GWU Secretary General Kevin Camilleri, GWU President Jason Deguara, Hospitality and Food Section Secretary Brian Bonnici, Assistant Secretary Johann Spiteri, GWU-TCN Liaison Officer Manav Sanger, together with several operators and distinguished representatives from the Association.