Glovo CEO Óscar Pierre faces potential trial over worker rights allegations

The Barcelona Prosecutor's Office has formally requested that Óscar Pierre, the founder and CEO of Glovo, face trial for alleged crimes against workers' rights. Following a two-year investigation, prosecutors stated there are “sufficient indications of a crime” under Article 311.2 of the Penal Code regarding the use of “false self-employed” workers.

The investigation stems from allegations that Glovo maintained its delivery riders as independent contractors despite requirements from Labor Inspections and Supreme Court rulings establishing them as employees. Prosecutors argue this model deprived workers of fundamental rights, such as sick leave coverage, union organization, and paid vacations.

While Pierre’s defense has sought to dismiss the case—arguing the company’s model was legal and that the Labor Inspection acted with a “collectionist zeal”—the prosecution maintains that the evidence warrants an abbreviated procedure to move toward a trial. The CGT union is also participating in the case as a popular accusation, opposing any dismissal of the investigation.