Abstract
The fast-growing gig economy has brought job opportunities for many around the world, especially in the fast-food-delivery sector. Relatively little research has been conducted that looked at the opportunities, challenges, and strategies implemented by food-delivery drivers in post-Covid South Africa. This study explores the opportunities, challenges, and strategies food-delivery drivers adopt in Johannesburg, South Africa. This study found the following based on eleven semi-structured in-depth interviews with food-delivery drivers working for either UberEats, MrDFood, and/or BoltFood in Johannesburg. In terms of opportunities, food-delivery drivers commended the nature of the work by having flexible work schedules, and the ability to have multiple jobs to supplement their wages. Challenges experienced by food-delivery drivers include road safety concerns, job insecurity, and demanding schedules during peak hours. Lastly, the study found that food-delivery drivers utilise WhatsApp groups as a strategy to assist each coping with precarious working conditions. Based on these themes, this research contributes to a better understanding of the experiences of food-delivery drivers in Johannesburg.
Keywords: Gig economy; Food deliver drivers; Opportunities; Challenges; Strategies