Building on the findings of its earlier survey on public perceptions of platform work, Kantar Insights Thailand, with support from Bolt, has released the second phase of its nationwide survey. The new findings highlight that platform work is not only widely respected, but also serves as a vital source of financial stability, skill development, and life progress for thousands of Thai drivers.
According to the data, 93% of drivers say platform work has improved their household's financial stability, allowing them to achieve tangible milestones such as purchasing vehicles or funding education.
- 44% have bought a motorcycle,
- 43% have purchased a car, and
- 30% have paid for education for themselves or family members.
Most drivers work 21-30 hours per week, with around 29% earning between ฿20,001 and ฿40,000 per month, roughly 154% higher than Thailand's average monthly wage of ฿15,738 (Q4 2024). This underscores the strong earning potential and flexibility that platform work offers
"Platform work is not just a job. It's an enabler of financial freedom and personal growth," said Nathadon Suksiritarnan, General Manager, Bolt Thailand. "The survey clearly shows that drivers are building better lives for themselves and their families through flexible, independent work that fits their lifestyles and ambitions."
Earlier findings from Bolt and Kantar revealed that 97% of drivers feel respected by society, challenging outdated stereotypes that platform work is "only for the young" or "for the unskilled." The new results reinforce this shift in perception, showing that drivers not only value flexibility but also gain professional and financial empowerment. Drivers consistently cite flexibility as the top reason for partnering with digital platforms.
- 99% say platform work helps them better manage personal and family responsibilities.
- 88% report having full or significant control over their schedules. The ability to "be your own boss" and earn on one's own terms remains central to why people choose this work.
Beyond income, the survey reveals platform work as a source of professional development.
- 63% of drivers say they have improved their time management and customer service skills.
- 53% have gained new digital and communication skills.
- Nearly half report improvements in navigation, logistics, and financial literacy.
"Drivers today are digital entrepreneurs," added Nathadon. "They're gaining real-world experience that translates into valuable professional skills, from managing time and budgets to building customer relationships."
The release of these findings comes at a pivotal moment as Thailand advances its Digital Platform Economy policy—led by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) and its agency, the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA). Both bodies play a central role in shaping an inclusive and innovation-friendly digital ecosystem that supports fair competition and sustainable digital economy growth.
MDES's Digital Economy and Society Development Plan outlines national goals to expand digital infrastructure, strengthen digital literacy, and promote inclusive participation in the digital economy. ETDA, meanwhile, oversees implementation of the Royal Decree on the Supervision of Digital Platform Services (B.E. 2565), which enhances transparency, user protection, and responsible platform operations.
"Platform work has become a vital part of Thailand's economy," said Nathadon. "As Thailand's digital platform policies evolve, regulation should empower this workforce—supporting innovation, flexibility, and the well-being of hundreds of thousands of Thais who choose this profession."
In this context, the Kantar survey provides valuable, data-driven insights to support evidence-based policymaking—helping regulators understand how platform work contributes to economic inclusion, upskilling, and household resilience across Thailand.
