PLATFORMIZATION AND LABOR PRECARIOUSNESS: APP-BASED DELIVERIES IN THE DYNAMICS OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN BARRA DO GARÇAS (MT)

Abstract

This article examines the impacts of economic platformization on the working conditions of app-based delivery workers in Barra do Garças (MT), focusing on its implications for regional development and the local labor market. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques, with questionnaires applied to delivery workers and local entrepreneurs through non-probabilistic sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and interpretative analysis. The findings indicate that although digital platforms expand labor market access and provide flexibility, long working hours, lack of labor rights, and income instability prevail, characterizing a precarious work scenario. From the entrepreneurs’ perspective, high labor costs, shortage of qualified workers, and preference for informal arrangements stand out. The study concludes that in medium-sized cities, platformization tends to intensify existing vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for public policies that balance innovation, formalization, and sustainable regional development.