Bolt report reveals self-employment in ride-hailing as the preferred choice
The ride-hailing industry had long become a bastion for self-employment, providing drivers with the ability to control their schedules and earnings. However years of Workers’ Rights court showdowns have pushed drivers towards a ‘workers’ status that allows for key employment features like sick pay and holiday pay.
According to the latest Bolt report, most drivers however prefer to remain self-employed rather than transition to more traditional employment arrangements. This preference stems from the flexibility and financial control self-employment offers.
In the UK, Bolt piloted the Bolt Boost scheme, which provided drivers with benefits such as holiday pay and the option to enrol in a pension programme. Despite these enhancements, only 17% of drivers expressed a preference for this arrangement. Nearly half favoured maintaining lower commission rates over structured benefits, with the remainder showing no preference. This outcome highlights the unique priorities of ride-hailing drivers, who often value upfront earnings over long-term financial security provided through benefits.
Self-employment allows drivers to adapt their work schedules to suit their lifestyles. Many drivers use ride-hailing as a secondary income source, balancing their work with caregiving, studying, or other jobs. For these individuals, flexibility is paramount. Fixed schedules or mandatory shifts, common in traditional employment, would undermine the very reasons many drivers are drawn to the industry.
However, self-employment also comes with challenges. Drivers must manage their own expenses, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance. They are also responsible for their own financial planning, such as saving for pensions or covering periods of reduced earnings. Despite these responsibilities, the autonomy and earning potential of self-employment continue to appeal to drivers globally.
As governments across Europe implement new regulations, such as the EU Platform Workers Directive, platforms must navigate the delicate balance between offering benefits and preserving the flexibility drivers value. The Bolt report emphasises that any regulatory changes should account for local market conditions and driver preferences, ensuring that the sector remains sustainable and appealing to workers.
