In a significant move, over 7,000 couriers from Just Eat are taking legal action against the company to secure improved employment rights, including the national minimum wage and holiday pay. The employment tribunal, which starts on Tuesday and will run until June 2, 2026, will decide whether these couriers are classified as workers with enhanced rights or as self-employed contractors. This initiative follows Just Eat's controversial decision to dismiss about 1,700 couriers in 2023, reverting to a gig economy model that eliminated guaranteed minimum pay and other benefits. Previously, Just Eat had trialed a program called “Scoober,” which provided couriers with e-bikes, fixed shifts, and other benefits, but it was scrapped after a limited run. A spokesperson from Just Eat emphasized that the majority of its 70,000 couriers in the UK prefer the flexibility of self-employment. The legal challenge is spearheaded by Leigh Day, the law firm known for advocating workers' rights in similar cases, including those of Addison Lee drivers and Bolt drivers. The UK government has also established the Fair Work Agency to enhance oversight of employment rights, particularly in high-risk sectors like the gig economy. Although recent legislation under the Employment Rights Act has improved conditions for workers, the government is still expected to consult on clarifying employment classifications. Just Eat, which was acquired by South African investor Prosus for €4.1 billion in early 2025, has expressed support for reforms in the UK employment framework.