I recently read an interesting and rather informative piece in the New York Times, about how food delivery apps are rapidly becoming pandemic profiteers. And it was unsettling to think that we’re lauding that Door Dash is about to go public with a possible $30 billion valuation, while ignoring how many small businesses are on the verge of shuttering because their already slim margins are non-existent.
Door Dash, Uber, Grub Hub are terrific under normal circumstances. They provide flexible employment, and a vital service for businesses not able to hire their own delivery drivers. But we’re not in ‘normal’ times. The ‘new normal’ is more like a dystopian hellscape, where ‘For Rent’ signs are becoming commonplace (looking at you, Broadway in Providence). While it’s not only restaurants, our favorite eateries are taking it from all angles lately.
Did you know that these predatory delivery services can charge your favorite restaurant fees as high as 30%? It’s not only possible, it’s more common that you think. What this means is an already struggling business is now LOSING money on every order placed online through delivery services. You may think you’re helping them, but the reality is you’re putting the nails in their coffin. There’s also evidence many restaurants are being forced into signing up as clients, which is not only unethical, it’s probably illegal.
So how do you help? Easy. Whenever possible, opt for curbside pickup, or order directly from the restaurant. That way, you can ask if their employees provide delivery, and if so — it’s a much better and beneficial option for supporting small business.
Anyone who might want to check out this really well done Opinion contribution, here’s the link: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/08/opinion/delivery-apps-restaurants-fees.html
