As we all are (hopefully) practicing social distancing, third party food delivery apps have become essential for many to enjoy our local restaurants still offering takeout.

The restaurant industry has and will continue to suffer while their doors remain closed, many being forced to permanently close due to the sudden lack of cash flow. 

Food delivery apps have made it possible for restaurants to continue to operate by connecting them to a large customer base. However, apps such as UberEats and SkipTheDishes are collecting 20-30% commissions on all orders placed through their platforms.

UberEats recently launched an ad campaign titled "$0 Delivery Fee for local restaurants", this promotion provides a $0 delivery fee, for the customer, on orders over $20. This fee is only one part of the extensive charge package the consumer faces (ex. 10% service fee and a small order fee if your subtotal does not meet their requirements). This promotion offers no reduced commission or fees for the actual restaurants, who are still having to suffer the 30% cut the app is taking on average. 

I suggest those who truly want to support local businesses and help restaurants survive during this pandemic to NOT USE UBER EATS. Picking up your order directly from the restaurant would be the ideal situation. However, during this time that is not a possibility for most of us. I encourage you to use DoorDash, which is currently offering restaurants a 0% commision fee, along with a $0 delivery fee to consumers on most orders.