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Power resources for disempowered workers? Re‐conceptualizing the power and potential of consumers in app‐based food delivery

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  • Caleb Goods
  • Alex Veen
  • Tom Barratt
  • Brett Smith

Abstract

Consumers play an integral role in the labor process of app‐based food delivery services through their consumption behaviors and performance ratings of workers. Some therefore see them as a potential ally of workers, whereas others view them as beholden by capital. This quantitative study uses power resource theory and a Rasch model to appraise consumers' understandings and attitudes toward working conditions in this segment of the “gig” economy. Drawing on two surveys of 1820 Australian consumers, we find that consumers are a potential yet heterogenous coalitional power resource who may align with workers on certain entitlements like minimum wages.

Suggested Citation

  • Caleb Goods & Alex Veen & Tom Barratt & Brett Smith, 2024. "Power resources for disempowered workers? Re‐conceptualizing the power and potential of consumers in app‐based food delivery," Industrial Relations: A Journal of Economy and Society, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 63(2), pages 107-131, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:indres:v:63:y:2024:i:2:p:107-131
    DOI: 10.1111/irel.12340
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    References listed on IDEAS

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