The COVID-19 pandemic has given a huge boost to food-delivery apps. However, a snapshot investigation from consumer watchdog suggests that they might not be the cheapest alternative.
The survey compared the prices of meals from five eateries, and directly ordered and purchased on apps including UberEats, Deliveroo, and Just Eat. As per the findings, on an average, a takeaway cost 23% more on an app than direct ordering.
Responding to the survey, Deliveroo added that the company encourages restaurants to set the same prices on their menu card as they provide customers when dining in. The firm further stated that the commission that Deliveroo charges is then reinvested back into the company’s enterprise, paying for the fees of riders, customer services, and for the upgradation of services for restaurants.
As stated by the app companies, the commission rates charged by them were fair. However, the survey states that the orders on Deliveroo were the costliest. These cost an average of 31% more as compared to direct ordering. While UberEats orders cost an extra amount of 25%, orders from Just Eat were up to 7% more expensive.
According to the survey, the most expensive order comprised a taco and a burrito from a Mexican restaurant, which was priced at a value of £43.94 on Deliveroo. The cost was approximately 44% more as compared to direct ordering. Prior to the addition of service and delivery charges, the price was £8.30 more.
It is to be noted that the costs on apps are usually set by restaurants and they often escalate these costs for covering the service fees charged.
As per Adam French, Consumer Rights Expert, the next time a takeaway is fancied, consumers must be aware that the unequivocal convenience that is provided by a food delivery app comes with a disguised additional cost. French further added that if something goes wrong with an order, a customer might find himself caught between the app and the restaurant.
Source credit: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-57497997