The GMB trades union has formally begun legal proceedings against the B2B delivery company DX, supporting six lead claimants who are claiming that they have been “denied their rights as workers”.

In a statement the GMB said: “DX drivers are currently viewed as ‘self-employed contractors’ by DX, meaning that they are denied basic rights such as holiday pay and national minimum wage.

“The case is the latest in a series being brought by GMB on behalf of members to tackle the growing trend of bogus self-employment and gig economy exploitation.”

As previously reported by Apex Insight, the GMB won a “workers’ rights” case against Uber in October. Other gig economy and delivery companies – include Deliveroo – have seen legal decisions go against them in recent months. As the judiciary and Employment Tribunals find against such companies, there are powerful forces asking the government to loosen employment law to allow for the practices ruled illegal under current law. Depending on the outcome of the June 8th election, these may yet come to pass.

The claims in the DX case have been brought by the law firm Leigh Day.

DX hasn’t had an easy ride lately due to other factors. Last month, the board of DX made the announcement that it plans to merge with Menzies Distribution. However it has rebellious shareholders including Gatemore Capital Management who have made calls for many of the board to be replaced.

Keep an eye on Apex Insight to see how this all pans out.  
Subscribe to Newsletter