Gig economy workers are calling on major delivery platforms to disclose the workings of their computer-driven algorithms, which they say are responsible for setting pay and allocating jobs. Riders attribute falling wages to the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) by companies such as Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat.
Food delivery riders in Edinburgh have reported a decline in their rates of pay and a deterioration of working conditions. David, a rider for seven years, stated he is earning half the money he did four years ago for the same hours. Another rider, Dylan, has maintained records showing his average pay per order for Deliveroo in Scotland decreased from £3.67 in 2023 to £3.42 in the first half of 2026, even as his hourly order rate remained consistent.
The Workers' Observatory, a charity established by gig economy workers and academics from St Andrews and Edinburgh universities, is assisting riders in understanding these concealed aspects of their work. Xabier Villares, the observatory's lead organiser, noted a "dramatic change in the last three years," making it harder to earn a decent living.
Research from the University of Oxford and New York's Columbia business school indicated that the introduction of a dynamic pricing algorithm in 2023 led to Uber drivers earning "substantially less" per hour. Trades unions are campaigning to ban this practice, arguing it creates uncertainty for workers regarding their earnings.
Deliveroo, acquired by DoorDash in 2025, refers to its algorithm as Frank, describing it as "super smart" machine-learning technology designed to predict order timings and ensure efficient delivery. However, some riders, like Graeme Frances, have faced issues with AI, including being unable to log on due to facial recognition technology after an accident, preventing him from working.