Pizza drivers' wage sliced

Delivery drivers at Domino's Pizza have claimed their wages have been cut after they complained they were getting less than the minimum wage.

Earlier this year drivers said they were forced to work for less than the government established hourly working rate.

The national chain said the drivers were self-employed and could negotiate rates with franchise owners, something which they claim is standard in the industry.

However, following on from those claims, the drivers have said they have received new contracts at the local franchise.

One worker said: "Our pay has been cut to 4 per hour.

"They have done this by charging us 1.50 for every three hours of work we do and say it goes towards business insurance.

"If we don't want to pay it then we have been told not to come back."

The worker said new delivery staff were being brought in on a regular basis.

"If anybody does try to raise the problems they just tell them to leave as they have enough drivers," said the driver.

"It's a disgrace that you have a job and have to either work for nothing or else have no job at all."

A spokeswoman for Domino's said: "Drivers are paid a minimum of 4.50 an hour.

"The franchise operator has introduced a 1.50 charge for a minimum of three hours worked.

"If a driver only works two hours he will not pay it, but if he works over three hours he will only pay 1.50.

"Its basically a shift charge to cover costs the franchise owner was originally paying for."

She continued: "Drivers are used when and if the business requires it. They are self employed and can work as and when they want.

"They are paid a minimum of 4.50 an hour, they get 1 for every drop, a free pizza and staff discount."

In February the 'MAIL' reported claims that drivers for Domino's Pizza said they were forced to work for less than the National Minimum Wage.

However, according to the national pizza chain, the drivers were not employed by Domino's, but instead self-employed and could negotiate their own rates with the franchise owner.

A spokeswoman for the company said the practice was standard across the global chain.

Just this week Domino's reported, nationally, strong sales for the first quarter of the year. Compared to the same period last year sales had increased by over 10 per cent.