GMB Union Raises Concerns Over Uber Trip Radar and Declining Driver Earnings

Union Continues Investigation Into Driver Concerns

The GMB Union has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing mounting concerns from Uber drivers across the UK over controversial app features and what members describe as deteriorating real-term earnings.

Members are concerned about dynamic pricing, Trip Radar and declining earnings, according to the union’s latest noticeboard updates. The organisation has partnered with Nottingham Trent University to conduct formal research into how Trip Radar allows multiple drivers to view and compete for available jobs in real time, rather than trips being directly assigned.

Trip Radar, which launched in 2022, has become a flashpoint for driver dissatisfaction. The feature shows up to five available trips simultaneously, forcing drivers to compete for jobs rather than receiving direct assignments. Critics argue the system creates uncertainty and reduces driver control over their working day.

Commission Structures Under Fire

The union’s concerns come amid wider criticism of Uber’s fee structure. Under revised agreements taking effect in 2026, Uber drivers outside London are subject to a variable service fee ranging from 3 percent to 49 percent, according to the App Drivers and Couriers Union.

Research from Oxford University has added weight to driver complaints. Adjusted for inflation, drivers’ hourly income fell from over £22 to just over £19 before operating costs, and drivers are spending more unpaid time waiting for rides than before. The study also found that Uber’s commission has risen from around 25% to 29% and in some cases, Uber took over half the value of the fare.

Transparency Demands Mount

The GMB has repeatedly pushed Uber for greater clarity on how earnings are calculated. Last year GMB agreed our position on national standards for the taxi and private hire industry, that included: full transparency over how fares are calculated for both drivers and riders.

Union representatives have highlighted that drivers are often in the dark about exactly how much of each fare the platform retains. The Worker Info Exchange claims the commission paid by drivers to Uber now often exceeds 50% of fares, compared to the previous flat rate of 25% before Up Front Pricing was introduced.

Research and Ongoing Dialogue

Research into the impact of Uber’s Trip Radar feature is currently underway, with the GMB Union confirming it has partnered with Nottingham Trent University to examine how the system affects drivers. The study forms part of a broader push by the union to better understand the operational and financial implications of algorithm-driven job allocation systems.

The GMB maintains regular quarterly meetings with Uber management to discuss driver concerns. According to recent union communications, key agenda items include driver earnings, the economic impact of Trip Radar, and calls for improved platform support across various operational issues.

Cost-of-Living Pressures

The earnings concerns have been compounded by rising operating costs. GMB members driving for Uber are being crushed between rocketing fuel prices and the cost of living crisis, with the union calling on Uber and all operators to support drivers before they are forced from the profession.

Whilst Uber has offered support packages to drivers in other markets such as Australia, the GMB has noted that similar assistance has not been extended to UK drivers facing comparable pressures.

The union’s research findings are expected to be shared with members once completed, potentially informing future negotiations with the platform over fee structures and working conditions.

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