Recent pricing policies introduced by major delivery companies such as Vigo and Getir have exacerbated the already challenging working conditions for delivery workers in İstanbul. With cuts of up to 30% in payment per delivery and the removal of bonuses, many workers are feeling the financial strain just ahead of the Eid al-Adha holiday. These changes have sparked significant protests from delivery workers who are mobilizing to voice their dissatisfaction and demand better compensation.
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Vigo Delivery Workers Protest Pay Cuts |
| 2) The Impact of Pricing Changes |
| 3) Collective Action in Response to Policy Changes |
| 4) Getir’s Cutbacks and Workers’ Reactions |
| 5) A Call for Solidarity Among Delivery Workers |
Vigo Delivery Workers Protest Pay Cuts
Delivery workers, particularly those affiliated with Vigo, have initiated protests in response to significant pay cuts that have been introduced just before Eid al-Adha. The announcement, which reduced pay per delivery and eliminated previously available bonuses, has left many workers frustrated and struggling to make ends meet. Evren*, a leader in the protests, expressed their discontent, stating, “I think Vigo management has once again sacrificed us just before the holiday.” The new pricing update not only reduces the income of workers but also ignores their rising operational costs due to high inflation, currently reported at over 35%. Workers have taken to social media to rally support and have organized on-the-ground protests to further amplify their voices.
The Impact of Pricing Changes
The changes to Vigo’s pricing structure have had a considerable impact on delivery workers’ incomes. Under the new system, pay per package has decreased significantly, leading to an estimated 4.77% income reduction for workers completing 30 deliveries a day. For those delivering 35 packages within a 12-hour shift, the impact worsens to an income drop of approximately 7.51%. Workers have highlighted that, in cases where multiple deliveries are made from the same business, they only receive full payment for the first package, leaving the second and third delivered at half price or for free altogether. This structure incentivizes longer hours without true compensation, further aggravating their financial situation.
Collective Action in Response to Policy Changes
The protests ignited by these changes have demonstrated the power of collective action among delivery workers. Following the announcements on the new pricing model, many workers participated in spontaneous engine shutdowns across various parts of İstanbul. The protest escalated quickly; by Saturday, large groups gathered at Anna’s Kozyatağı office, urging the company to reconsider its strategy. The speed at which the protests organized reflects the widespread frustration felt among workers and showcases their commitment to stand united against unreasonable wage reductions. Evren shared insights into this solidarity, suggesting that “this injustice done to us is also done to our families,” indicating that the consequences of corporate decisions extend beyond just financial struggles.
Getir’s Cutbacks and Workers’ Reactions
At the same time, workers from Getir have also criticized the company for its similar pricing cuts, which average between 30% to 35%. Mehmet Basutçu, a representative from the Beşiktaş depot, recounts that their income dropped from an average of 105 TL per package to as low as 74 TL. The announcement of these cuts led the workers to collectively decide to shut down their engines. This protest aims not only to express their dissent but also to demand fairer compensation in regards to their workloads. Workers have reached out to their peers, urging them not to accept the low rates imposed during a holiday period when many employers typically offer bonuses.
A Call for Solidarity Among Delivery Workers
Both Vigo and Getir workers are calling for solidarity in their struggle against these pay cuts. They stress the importance of community support from the public and their customers, as their fight is not solely for personal gain, but for fair compensation that acknowledges the hard work they do. Mehmet highlighted the critical role that public awareness plays in their movement, encouraging others to join them in solidarity to achieve lasting change. Both sets of workers have vowed to continue protesting until their demands are met and fairer working conditions are established, proving that the collective voice of workers has power and can lead to impactful activism.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | Delivery workers in İstanbul face pay cuts of up to 30% from Vigo and Getir. |
| 2 | High inflation rates are compounding financial hardships for delivery workers. |
| 3 | Collective protests have occurred, signifying widespread frustration among the workforce. |
| 4 | Workers demand the withdrawal of cut pricing and a new, fair contract from their employers. |
| 5 | Solidarity among workers and public support are emphasized as crucial for achieving their goals. |
Summary
The recent pay cuts implemented by delivery service companies Vigo and Getir have ignited significant civil unrest among workers in İstanbul. As these individuals navigate already challenging economic conditions heightened by inflation, their response underscores the urgency for fair wages and better working conditions. The protests exemplify how collective action can serve as a catalyst for change within the gig economy, and the calls for solidarity reflect a deep understanding among these workers of the shared challenges they face. The outcome of their struggle could set a precedent for future negotiations within the delivery service sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What has prompted the recent protests among delivery workers?
The recent protests have been prompted by substantial pay cuts and the removal of bonuses implemented by delivery companies such as Vigo and Getir.
Question: How much was the delivery pay cut among workers?
Delivery workers faced cuts of up to 30%, significantly impacting their overall income, especially during the Eid al-Adha holiday period.
Question: What demands are the protesting workers making?
The protesting workers are demanding that the new pricing policies be withdrawn and that a new, fair contract be established to safeguard their rights.
