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The EU's platform economy

The EU's platform economy is growing quickly. From an estimated €3 billion in 2016 it has reached €14 billion in revenues in 2020.

 

More than 500 digital labour platforms are now operating in the EU, facilitating access to services for customers and creating opportunities for businesses and people.

 

Although most of the platforms operating in the EU were created in Europe, they compete with international platforms, based mainly in North America.

 

Infographic illustrating an overview of the EU's booming platform economy.

The EU’s platform work economy in brief

Digital labour platforms play an important role in the EU’s economy. They are present in all member states, provide a source of income for over 28 million people, and have become a very popular way to meet consumer needs.

Fivefold growth in four years

Revenues from digital platform work have multiplied in recent years, from €3.4 billion in 2016 to €14 billion in 2020.

75% of revenues come from taxi and food delivery platforms - sectors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (taxi services decreased by 35% while food delivery increased by 125%).

Snapshot of digital platforms in the EU

At present, there are over 500 active digital labour platforms.

Place of origin of digital platforms active in the EU:

  • EU: 77%
  • North America:12%
  • Other Europe: 8%
  • Asia: 2%
  • Oceania: 1%

Earnings of people working through platforms in the EU, by place of origin of digital platform:

  • EU: 51%. Top five:
    • Germany: €1 billion
    • France: €0.7 billion
    • the Netherlands: €0.4 billion
    • Spain: €0.4 billion
    • Estonia: €0.2 billion
  • North America: 42%
  • Other Europe: 5%
  • Asia: 1%
  • Oceania: 1%

Sources:

Background information:

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Last review: 4 February 2025