Strike action by Wolt couriers continued for another day with increased participation in Nicosia, Larnaca and Limassol, affecting the operation of the delivery platform. A meeting between the company, representatives of the couriers and the trade union PEO is scheduled for Tuesday morning to discuss the workers’ demands.
Platform disruptions and reduced orders
Couriers in Nicosia held a protest gathering on Monday, increasing pressure on the company to address their demands.
At the same time, the Wolt platform displayed messages to users indicating that orders could only be placed from nearby stores or that delivery times were significantly longer than usual.
Restaurant owners told politis.com.cy that they were able to fulfil only a very limited number of orders, highlighting the impact of the strike on the platform’s operations.
Meeting scheduled with company and union
According to information, an online meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 11:30 between Wolt, representatives of the couriers and the trade union PEO.
The aim of the meeting is to discuss the demands raised by the workers.
Couriers’ demands
The central issue raised by the striking couriers concerns what they describe as very low delivery fees.
According to the couriers, current earnings do not cover basic costs such as fuel or vehicle maintenance. They are therefore calling for an increase in the payment per delivery, which they say has steadily declined in recent years.
Workers also stress that the issue is not only financial. They highlight safety concerns, particularly during night shifts, citing repeated incidents of racist violence, attacks, theft and vandalism of their vehicles, which they say have created a strong sense of insecurity.
In their list of demands, the couriers state that low delivery fees and unpaid waiting times create serious financial difficulties.
They argue that the current payment structure does not fairly compensate couriers for fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, waiting time at restaurants or long-distance deliveries. Many couriers work long hours but still struggle to earn a stable and fair income.
Company response
In response to recent developments and media reports, Wolt said it respects the right of its partners to express their views and concerns.
The company stated that the platform continues to operate normally, although delays may occur at certain times, and called on users and partners to show understanding.
Wolt also noted that it is already in communication with representatives of the couriers in order to examine the issues raised, with particular focus on remuneration.
According to the company, it works with more than 3,000 couriers in Cyprus. For those employed through fleet management companies, a collective agreement has been in place since July 2024, negotiated with trade unions and under the supervision of the Ministry of Labour.
The company also stated that it distances itself from statements or actions by third parties that do not align with its principles and values and reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue with all parties in order to ensure a fair and sustainable working environment.
Wolt further condemned all forms of violence against couriers and said it has maintained cooperation with the relevant authorities for at least two years to address incidents of racism.
Message of solidarity from Greece
The Wolt Workers Union of Attica expressed support for the strike by couriers in Cyprus.
In a statement, the union said the struggle of the couriers in Cyprus is shared by workers in Greece, highlighting demands for stable employment, higher wages and improved health and safety measures.
It also criticised what it described as threats of mass account closures, company bonus schemes and repression during the mobilisation, which it said were aimed at intimidating workers and breaking the strike.
The union stressed that Greek, Cypriot and migrant workers have common interests and called for coordination and unity among workers. It concluded by expressing support for the strike and the demand for better working conditions.