Delivery service DPD may experience service disruptions due to an ongoing dispute with some of its drivers over recent changes in payment rates. A group of drivers has initiated a three-day work refusal in response to DPD’s decision to reduce the payment for small parcel deliveries by 65p. Some drivers estimate that this cut could lead to a loss of approximately £6,500 annually.
The reduction specifically impacts self-employed or franchised drivers, who constitute the majority within DPD. Reports indicate that driver communications regarding the changes were brief, with some receiving only a few hours of notice before the new rates took effect in late September. DPD has stated that adjustments were made to reflect changes in parcel traffic profiles.
In addition to the rate cut for small parcels, DPD clarified that there would be no changes for larger or high-value parcels, and that drivers would receive an extra 65p for heavier deliveries. The company also mentioned the introduction of new incentive payments aimed at enhancing overall earnings.
Despite DPD’s confidence that the driver action will not significantly impact its services, participants in the work refusal have expressed concerns about their income. One driver indicated that the changes could reduce his daily earnings by about £25, while another argued that the increased rates for larger parcels do not compensate for the losses incurred from the cut.
The drivers engaged in the action plan to refrain from deliveries on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of this week. DPD acknowledged the concerns raised by some drivers and stated that these issues are being addressed. However, the company emphasized that only a small number of drivers have opted not to work.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c701ddg4ep9o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss