However, it still remains to be seen whether much will change. Previous promises to address the issues have not been realised while couriers continue to see their earnings slash as the market grows. 

Malta’s food courier platforms, which are the flagship enterprise in the emerging gig economy, surged in popularity in the country during the COVID-19 pandemic and have continued to grow since then.

However, the industry has been criticised for the working conditions of certain couriers. While EU nationals can be self-employed for the food courier apps and other platforms in the gig economy, third-country nationals must find employment through a fleet operator. 

There are many fair operators in the field, but many cowboy operators take explorative fees and rates from their couriers.

In some cases, fleet agencies, who act as employers for third-country-nationals who work with food courier platforms take at least 50% of their pay.

According to the figures, it appears that there are some third-country national Bolt workers that earn between €2.66 and €3.33 an hour on a good day. The minimum wage in Malta is €4.57.

One such agency is Recruit Giant, which charges enormous fees for third-country nationals to come to the country only to make them sign a second unfavourable contract once they reach Malta.

The company’s CEO has defended the practice, insisting that while it merits discussion, the current debate is oversimplifying a complex issue.

Operators in the field who have spoken to Lovin Malta insist that the issue lies with a few cowboy contractors and that there are many who offer fair conditions in the field.

The Finance Ministry had once pledged to address the issues in the industry but appears that not much has been done.

Food courier companies, meanwhile, are yet to provide figures on the numbers of couriers working in Malta and a full list of fleet operators in the islands.

Do you think anything will be done?