Deliveroo's robot delivery trials are 'disappointing', says trade union

GMB Union criticizes Deliveroo's robot delivery trials, calling them disappointing and unappeasable

UK trade union GMB Union has expressed disappointment with Deliveroo's plans to trial robot deliveries in several UK cities. The union argues that innovation should not be pursued at the expense of human workers, as the robot delivery plans were not negotiated with the couriers. Deliveroo's first robot deliveries in London's Canary Wharf are set to begin this month, with additional trials planned in Milton Keynes, Leeds, Stockton-on-Tees, and Nottingham.

GMB Union representative Claude Bahati expressed concern over the investment in autonomous technology and the lack of support for human workers, questioning why Deliveroo can fund robots while neglecting the riders who maintain the platform. The GMB Union emphasizes that innovation must always be discussed with workers, as these developments should not come at their expense.

The union also highlighted the growing discontent among human riders who demand better working conditions, including fairer pay and compensation for return journeys. The debate surrounding robot deliveries is likely to intensify, with other companies such as Evri and DoorDash also experimenting with robotics, and Amazon recently facing criticism over its delivery drones in Texas.