Major UK retailers Uniqlo, Gymshark, and Lush have ceased hiring retail staff through gig economy platforms, following pressure from trade unions over worker rights. This move signifies a shift in the retail sector's approach to temporary staffing.
The decision comes after the Trades Union Congress (TUC) contacted the companies, expressing concern over the use of gig economy platforms that often deny workers the legal rights associated with agency or direct employment, such as minimum wage and rest breaks. The TUC's letter urged the retailers to immediately end this practice and ensure all workers receive appropriate protections.
The Guardian reported the TUC's assistant general secretary citing the need for "all your workers [to] receive the rights and protections that they deserve as directly employed or agency workers." The TUC vowed to fight for the removal of this practice from the retail sector.
Uniqlo, in a statement, indicated that their brief trial of the Temper app has ended, emphasizing their commitment to direct recruitment for all roles. Lush, who hired a small number of workers through these apps, also confirmed they won't use them in the future. Gymshark has similarly ended its use.
These companies are shifting away from a staffing model that potentially deprives temporary workers of essential benefits and protections. The gig economy platforms involved, like Temper and YoungOnes, charge fees for worker hours, enabling retailers to post job openings on a flexible basis.
