The company’s actions, including its public criticism of government policies and contradictory stance on regulatory matters, suggest an element of regulatory capture. While the CEO publicly supports employment regulations like the Platform Work Directive, the simultaneous operational choices that disadvantage workers indicate an opportunistic manipulation of regulatory environments.

As the Platform Work Directive passes, is Just Eat turning its back on employing its riders?

Just Eat Takeaway.com's spending pattern, with relatively modest political contributions ($32,531) juxtaposed against a significant lobbying expenditure ($520,000) during the 2024 cycle, coupled with the revolving door phenomenon where 6 out of 8 lobbyists have previous government experience, suggests a concerning level of political influence. Such influence may undermine democratic processes and contribute to authoritarian practices.

Just Eat Takeaway.com Profile: Summary

By transitioning nearly 1,870 workers from full employment into a gig economy model, Just Eat undermines established labor rights such as minimum wage protections, sick and holiday pay, and job security. This practice represents an ethically irresponsible approach to labor relations that mirrors repressive, authoritarian tactics seen in other contexts, thereby contributing negatively to their overall corporate complicity index.

Just Eat employees forced to take up gig economy model

The incident reflects a serious breach in labour relations and human rights practices. Just Eat Takeaway.com failed to engage with local stakeholders and trade unions, notably ignoring the recommendations under the OECD Guidelines. This neglect undermines worker rights and aligns with practices that contribute indirectly to authoritarian economic structures by weakening labor solidarity.

Netherlands: National Contact Point rules that Just Eat Takeaway.com violated OECD Guidelines by not engaging with local stakeholders regarding labour rights abuses by Israeli subsidiary