Settlement reached for Addison Lee drivers in workers’ rights claim
Three Addison Lee drivers have reached an out of court settlement with the private hire company in a long running battle for workers’ rights such as holiday pay and minimum wage.
Posted on 21 February 2024
The settlement comes after a decision in by the Employment Tribunal in 2017 that Addison Lee drivers are workers. This judgment was upheld by the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) in 2018 and Court of Appeal in 2021.
While the claim was originally brought by three drivers, over 600 drivers are now represented by Leigh Day.
Addison Lee continues to argue that the 2017 judgment does not apply to the other claimants who had subsequently brought claims.
A hearing is due to take place in October and November 2024 to determine whether the rest of the claimants are workers and entitled to workers’ rights.
Leigh Day also represents drivers working for Bolt, Ola, Veezu and BCA, couriers delivering for Just Eat and Gophr and interpreters and translators working for DA Languages in similar workers’ rights claims.
Liana Wood, a solicitor in the Leigh Day employment team, said:
"This settlement is yet another blow to big firms operating in the gig economy.
“It is a reminder that companies cannot ignore their legal obligations and must treat their workers fairly."
Steve Garelick, GMB Organiser, said:
"For seven years, GMB has stood alongside our members in this fight for justice.
“We are proud to have played a role in securing this outcome, which ensures that Addison Lee will pay drivers the millions they are owed.
“We urge other companies to learn from this case and ensure their workers are treated fairly.”
Liana Wood
Liana Wood is a senior associate solicitor in the employment department.
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