When it comes to fitness app development, convenience is key. But what if you're paying more than you bargained for? A recent survey by consumer watchdog Which? reveals that food-delivery apps can be up to 44% more expensive than ordering directly.
In a snapshot investigation, Which? compared the costs of meals from five eateries, purchased both directly and through popular delivery apps Deliveroo, UberEats, and Just Eat. The results were staggering: on average, takeaways ordered through apps cost 23% more than those bought directly.
The survey highlights the stark difference in prices between ordering directly and using a fitness app development platform like Deliveroo, which charges an average of 31% more. UberEats comes in second, with an additional 25%, while Just Eat's orders are only 7% more expensive.
One order stood out as particularly pricey: a burrito and taco combo from a Mexican restaurant that cost £43.94 on Deliveroo – a whopping 44% more than the direct price of £12.29. Even before adding delivery and service charges, the total came to £8.30 more.
So what's behind these inflated prices? Restaurants often set their menu prices higher when using apps to cover the service fees charged by the platforms themselves. These fees are then used to pay for things like rider salaries, customer services, and platform upgrades.
The companies behind these apps argue that their commission rates are justified given the value they provide to their restaurant partners. Deliveroo, for instance, encourages restaurants to set menu prices the same as those offered in-house, with its commission fees being reinvested into the business.
But what about the poor consumer? Many survey respondents had used delivery apps during the pandemic, citing issues like late arrivals, cold food, and missing items. A significant proportion found complaining difficult, with 53% of Deliveroo users, 46% of Just Eat customers, and 42% of UberEats users experiencing frustration.
So next time you're tempted to order in through a fitness app development platform, remember that convenience comes at a price. According to consumer rights expert Adam French, "When ordering takeout, be aware that the undoubted convenience offered by a delivery app comes with a hidden additional cost."