Social impact of Wolt : a case study in Helsinki

Abstract

In many cities, including Helsinki, food delivery systems have grown commonplace, and Wolt is one of the major players in this market. It links clients, delivery couriers, and restaurants via its smartphone application. Even though this kind of work is frequently characterized as independent and flexible, it has also sparked worries about workers' rights, safety, and income stability. The social effects of becoming a Wolt courier in Helsinki are investigated in this research. Understanding how couriers see their everyday jobs and how they perceive topics like pay, workload, job security, safety, and social protection is the aim of the study. The study also examines how their working conditions are affected by app-based management.

The study employs a qualitative case study methodology. Semi-structured interviews with delivery couriers who are currently employed in Helsinki were used to gather data. To find recurring themes and important concerns in the participants' experiences, thematic analysis was used to examine the interviews. The findings indicate that couriers appreciate having a choice when they work. Many participants also reported difficulties like erratic income, stress during peak hours, inclement weather, and inadequate job perks. The study comes to the conclusion that although platform delivery labour provides easily accessible income options, its social sustainability will require changes in worker safeguards, safety precautions, and income predictability.