Deliveroo Faces Italian Labor Probe Amidst Gig Economy Crackdown

Milan prosecutors have placed the Italian arm of food delivery platform Deliveroo under judicial supervision and its chief executive is under investigation for alleged exploitation of workers, mirroring a similar action taken against Glovo earlier this month. The move signals a growing scrutiny of labor practices within Italy’s “gig economy.”

Growing Scrutiny of Food Delivery Companies

The investigation, announced on February 26, 2026, alleges that Deliveroo Italy exploited approximately 23,000 riders by paying wages significantly below the poverty line and collective bargaining agreements Hindustan Times. Riders reportedly earned between €3 and €5 per delivery, often working long hours – up to 17 hours a day, seven days a week – while classified as freelancers ANSA.

Similar Action Against Glovo

This action follows a similar decision on February 19, 2026, where Milan prosecutors placed the Italian branch of Glovo’s Foodinho under judicial administration for allegedly exploiting its workers ANSA. Both cases center on accusations that the companies took advantage of riders’ need for function to pay wages as low as 90% below the poverty line, violating the Italian Constitution’s guarantee of a dignified existence ANSA.

Investigation Details and Company Response

Prosecutors argue that despite being classified as freelancers, the management practices of Deliveroo effectively treated riders as employees ANSA. Andrea Giuseppe Zocchi, Deliveroo Italy’s sole director, and the company itself are under investigation Il Sole 24 Ore. Deliveroo stated it is cooperating with the investigation and reviewing the documentation received from the authorities Hindustan Times.

Broader Investigation into Labor Practices

The cases against Deliveroo and Glovo are part of a wider series of investigations by Milan prosecutors into alleged worker exploitation within the delivery, logistics, and fashion sectors ANSA. Prosecutors have too requested documents from seven companies that utilize riders, including McDonald’s, Burger King, and Esselunga Il Sole 24 Ore.

A preliminary investigations judge (GIP) will decide whether to uphold the prosecutors’ request for judicial administration ANSA.