Business Insider SA reports that Uber Eats drivers plan a nationwide strike on Friday to demand an increase in their fees.  Last month, drivers brought deliveries in Gauteng to a standstill for two days in protest over a sharp fall in their income over recent months.  

Duane Bernard, representing the Uber Driver Partners Association, explained that in response to pressure from restaurants, Uber Eats last year lowered its delivery fees from 30% per delivery (plus 5% to the driver), to a capped fee of around R9 per meal.  This has contributed to a fall in earnings, with some drivers having seen their average earnings halve in the past three years.  Bernard indicated that drivers were currently getting a “pick up” fee of R10 per delivery, plus R4 a mile (1.6km), which he said was totally unacceptable.  Drivers are demanding a pick-up fee of R20 and then R6/km after the first 2km.  “Fuel price will increase again soon and we refuse to work for lower rates year on year,” Bernard said.  The drivers also want a minimum of R30 for the first two kilometres for courier deliveries.  They currently receive around R4 a kilometer.  Drivers have been asked to stay offline countrywide on Friday, said Bernard.  Pickets are also planned outside big food outlets and a group will also protest at the Uber office in Sandton.  “We are aware that some delivery-drivers have expressed concern over the reduced delivery charges for users,” an Uber Eats spokesperson indicated.  The company recently hosted feedback sessions with drivers “to understand their experiences” and is "working through" this feedback.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard at Business Insider SA

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