Uber Works app pairs gig economy workers with employers
Ride hailing giant Uber has launched an app, Uber Works, to connect temporary workers looking for shifts with businesses trying to fill gaps in their rotas.
The app will show workers what shifts are available in certain areas and how much they will be paid for each one, and aims to help businesses that struggle with high turnover and finding enough staff to meet peak demand.
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Uber Works is only available in Chicago for now, where it has been tested in stealth mode for a year, the company said.
Uber Works will partner with staffing agencies including Trueblue who employ, pay, and organise benefits for workers, Uber said.
Uber has been working to diversify its business as its core ride-hailing operations are threatened by competition in Asia and greater US regulatory scrutiny over its categorisation of its drivers as independent contractors.
A new California that will help thousands of gig workers become employees and experience associated benefits will come into effect at the start of next year.
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The company reported a $5.2bn loss in the second quarter, and its shares have underperformed since it floated on the New York Stock Exchange in May.
Uber’s shares closed at a record low yesterday, leaving it with a market capitalisation of roughly $49bn – a significant decrease on the private valuation of $76bn it had received ahead of its IPO.
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