‘Bogus’ | Urban Outfitters & Dreams questioned over use of gig app to secure 'self-employed' staff

Bosses at Urban Outfitters and Dreams have been questioned by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) for using a gig economy app to secure staff, amid concerns that such platforms can leave workers earning less than the minimum wage.

The TUC argued that there was no rationale for retailers to be taking on self-employed workers for roles such as shop assistants or baristas.

But Temper, the maker of the platform, insisted it is “fully compliant” with UK law and that all individuals who sign up to the platform are made aware of the model, their self-employed status, and what it means for their pay.

Employers criticised over gig app usage

There are long-standing debates about gig economy work in the UK, with bodies like the TUC warning that staff often end up earning paltry wages while missing out on basic employment rights, including rest breaks, paid sick leave, and paid holidays.