Food Delivery Services Weather the Snow Storm: Varying Strategies for Continued Operation
Food delivery services are bracing for a storm, quite literally. As heavy snowfall blankets several Norwegian cities, the matleveringstjeneste industry is implementing different tactics to ensure business continuity while prioritizing safety.
Foodora: Preparing for the Rush
Foodora has announced it will be fully staffed from 2 PM onwards, anticipating a surge in orders as the workday ends. In an email to DinSide, Foodora’s press contact, Mads Blybakken, stated, "Now we’re gearing up for the evening rush, and that will be the critical moment."
Blybakken emphasized that the safety of their couriers is paramount. "It can be challenging. We’re monitoring the situation with both couriers and law enforcement. If it’s not safe for our couriers to deliver, we will close down ordering. It hasn’t been necessary yet."
Potential Temporary Closures
As of Tuesday morning, Foodora was considering temporarily closing in several locations due to severe weather conditions. Blybakken confirmed, "Today, the situation is quite challenging in many places. Foodora is considering temporary closures in Bergen, Oslo, Fredrikstad, Lillestrøm, and Drammen."
Wolt: Adapting Delivery Radius
Meanwhile, Wolt has no plans to shut down but is exploring the possibility of reducing its delivery radius. In an email to DinSide, Wolt’s communication chief, Christian Kamhaug, revealed, "Usually, we deliver up to 7-8 kilometers by car and 3 by bicycle, but we’re constantly reviewing the situation. Instead of closing areas, we might reduce the delivery radius in certain periods in specific areas."
Last year, Wolt experimented with deliveries by ski, an alternative they’re now reconsidering. Kamhaug wrote, "But I think that’s not the solution for a day like today. Patience and cooperation are likely what will get us through the day – and effective snow clearing by the municipality."
Meny and Oda: Safely Navigating Challenges
Dagligvarekjeden Meny has also reported that adverse weather conditions are causing delays in their deliveries. They advised customers to expect some delays and apologized for the inconvenience.
Oda, another delivery service, is also facing difficulties, temporarily closing some routes due to harsh conditions. Thor Steinhovden, Oda’s press representative, informed DinSide, "We’re out there on the roads. Some routes are affected, and some are temporarily closed for delivery. Where we see it’s too challenging to deliver, we’re closing those routes."
Consumer Rights in Adverse Weather Conditions
The Norwegian Consumer Council (Forbrukerrådet) reminds consumers that they have the right to information, refunds, and assistance from transport companies during severe weather conditions. The Council advises customers to stay informed and, if needed, seek compensation for delayed or canceled deliveries.
As the snow continues to fall, food delivery services are demonstrating agility and concern for their employees’ safety. By adjusting their tactics and keeping consumers informed, they strive to navigate the storm while minimizing disruptions to their essential services.
