Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing, wearing masks, hand-washing and self-isolation have been recommended by health officials to keep cases low. Businesses have adjusted accordingly.
Luckily, with food delivery services such as DoorDash, Grubhub, UberEats and Postmates, contactless delivery is easier than ever. To top it off, two businesses are being benefited rather than just one.
For example, in DoorDash stores, Dashers can access free masks, wipes and hand sanitizer. To minimize contact between Dashers and customers, the company has moved all orders to a no-contact delivery at drop-off by default. They have also informed Dashers they may request a no-contact delivery at any time.
Additionally, at checkout, as well as seeing the “leave it at my door” default drop-off option, customers can leave additional instructions, such as an apartment number or a specific location to help the food-runner complete the delivery. Customers also are reminded upon order arrival to wear a mask if they meet in-person to receive their order.
With more restaurants facing onsite-dining restrictions and more stay-at-home orders being put in place, delivery apps have become more essential for both business owners and their customers as more people order takeout and groceries during the coronavirus pandemic.
Enjoying favorite foods and drinks without needing to risk peoples’ health has restored a sense of normalcy during a difficult time. Junior Makayla Morgan expressed the benefits of the food delivery service she uses. “Postmates has made my life so much easier as I’ve incorporated it into my life. It is convenient and the system is very safe so I don’t have to worry about COVID like I would if I went into a store or restaurant,” she stated.
The results have also been positive for these services. DoorDash, UberEats, Grubhub and Postmates have amassed roughly $5.5 billion in combined revenue from April through September—more than twice as much as their combined $2.5 billion in revenue during the same period last year.
Consumer and Market Insight Specialist Christina Furlong collects information for restaurants considering or already offering food delivery services. “Offering delivery can help restaurants mitigate costs during this period of disruption and also ease the return to normal working conditions once COVID-19 is no longer a threat,” she stated.
Furlong also commented on the adaptability of businesses to keep their customers safe while still making profit. “The rate of adaption to new regulations, technologies and ways of working has allowed thousands of operators to offer uninterrupted service in a time of great uncertainty,” she stated.
Junior Cecelia Fierce voiced a pleasurable experience using UberEats and expressed its efficiency during the pandemic. “It’s a way to make sure businesses are getting business or like attention but staying at home and minimizing risk. Plus, it’s helping out the middle man…” she noted.
Businesses have turned to delivery services as a source of profit during the pandemic. On the other side, many customers find delight in receiving food from the comfort of their homes.
