Courier company Hermes UK and the GMB Union have agreed further benefits for all ‘self-employed plus’ (SE+) couriers, as part of their annual negotiations.
The new deal for SE+ couriers is said to include a range of increased payments for the services that they provide, such as increased rates for parcels collections, and additional incentives.
Couriers have had the option of being classified as ‘self-employed plus’ at Hermes since 2019. Among the included entitlements are paid holiday and guaranteed minimum payment rates.
Hermes estimates that by the end of June 2021, over 70 per cent (around 20,000 couriers) will have made the decision to take SE+ status.
Martijn de Lange, CEO at Hermes UK, said: “When we announced our deal in 2019, we committed to continuing to develop our support for the rights of self-employed workers.
“Independent research shows that over three quarters of our SE+ couriers believe that their health and wellbeing has improved, as a result of having paid holidays. This is particularly important given the challenging events of the past year where they have played a vital role in ensuring that people have been able to get essential items delivered safely.”
Mick Rix, GMB national officer, said: “Hermes is continuing to show other companies that looking after those who work for you is not just the right thing to do, it’s good for business.
“Couriers now have a real voice in their workplace and the right to take holidays and the right to guaranteed pay. These are basic rights that the GMB has fought hard for on behalf of members and the continuing evolvement of this deal shows the gig economy doesn’t have to rip off workers and that exploitative employers need to sit up and take notice.”
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