Addison Lee private hire drivers to stage rush hour protest over falling pay

Addison Lee drivers are staging a protest during Monday’s morning rush hour, in response to worsening pay and working conditions.

The action, organised by drivers through the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB), aims to highlight the impact of significant cuts to driver earnings.

Passengers arriving into London could face transport disruption as drivers down tools from 5am to 9am. Addison Lee drivers claim their earnings have fallen by up to a third since 2021, with the company’s commission reportedly taking as much as 70% of customer fares. Drivers say they are forced to work 70-hour weeks just to get by, leading to serious concerns over their mental and physical health.

The drivers are demanding better pay, with calls for minimum rates per trip and for Addison Lee to cap its commission at 30%. They are also seeking a freeze on vehicle rental payments for drivers on sick leave.

This protest comes at a critical time for Addison Lee, which faces a legal battle over unpaid holiday and minimum wage entitlements.

An Addison Lee driver for 10 years who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “A few years ago I could work five days a week and earn enough to live comfortably and put some money aside each month. Now I’m working at least six, often seven, days a week, up to 12 hours a day, and I’m living hand to mouth.

“I have to pay £500 each week just to cover car rental, insurance and petrol, before a single penny goes into my own pocket. My mental health isn’t good - I didn’t used to be the kind of person to moan about things, but these days I’m constantly stressed about whether I’ll be able to make ends meet at the end of the month.”

Nader Awaad, Chair of the IWGB Private Hire Drivers, said: “Addison Lee advertises ‘everyday luxury’ whilst making its drivers’ every day misery. Sleep deprivation, sciatica, and serious mental health issues plague a large portion of Addison Lee’s workforce, who, after devastating pay cuts, are forced to spend 70 hours a week plus on the roads.”