Stansted’s greedy car service operator is ‘crushing’ drivers pay by charging above-average commission rates
The hike in commission rates at StreetCars implemented in June, has driven drivers to despair over concerns about lower earnings.
StreetCars, the official car service operator at Stansted Airport has inflated its commission charge to drivers from 40 per cent to 45.5 per cent, effectively meaning a pay cut for drivers.
The company continue to take on additional drivers because of the lucrative commission and car rental charges. But too many drivers working for the company reduces the number of jobs available to drivers and is the reason why many drivers work excessive hours, says GMB Union.
GMB member and driver said:
"It is tough for us, 45.5 per cent commission for every job makes it hard to earn a living. We have no alternative but to work more than 10 hours, but that is if the jobs are there. When the airport is quieter it's quite possible that drivers cannot earn the equivalent of the National Minimum Wage.
“Car insurance, maintenance costs, fuel, and for some drivers car rental, must all be paid regardless of how little we have earnt.”
Steve Garelick, GMB London Region Organise said:
"Like many workers on low pay struggling to cope with living costs, Streetcars drivers are being crushed by these ‘greedy’ charges. 45.5 per cent is an extortionate commission rate in comparison to other operators which take considerably lower commission.
“Some drivers are working excessive hours to make a living, meaning their health and safety and that of passengers is at risk, this is a concern for passengers and GMB.
“MAG officials seem to have little power to ensure that StreetCars is a fair and law-abiding employer therefore on the face of it, Streetcars can impose these high rates without any backlash from MAG or any other body. Our members have had enough and will take action.”
Contact: Steve Garelick, GMB London Region Organiser, 079 6776 3980
Notes to editors
GMB London - Stansted airport’s private hire drivers consider ballot for industrial action
