Postmates announced today it would be adding a non-contact delivery option, for those concerned about COVID-19 exposure from workers bringing them food.
Instacart set up something similar earlier this week, announcing sales were 10x higher this week over last due to coronavirus concerns and rolling out the leave it at my door option for customers concerned about coronavirus.This flu-like virus has already infected nearly 100,000 people worldwide, killing thousands, including one man so far in the Bay Area, the hub of Silicon Valley and the startup world.Similar services starting offering this contactless option in China last month, where COVID-19 took a stronghold and started spreading from Wuhan.
The majority of stores in the area had closed shop, leaving delivery as most peoples only option.
The contactless measure seemed aimed at keeping everyone safe and minimizing exposure.While plenty of customers have praised this effort, not everyone is pleased, believing this move is just passing the buck to low-wage workers.Postmates counters this argument, telling A Technology News Room the move is beneficial to both customers and couriers.
Community health and safety is paramount at Postmates, and we have shared precautionary CDC guidance with our Postmates, a Postmates spokesperson told A Technology News Room.
Customers have an option to designate the drop-off of item without contact; and well continue to encourage employees, merchants and consumers to follow preventative measures.
While we are operating with business as usual, we are tracking the situation closely and will help provide the resources necessary to mitigate increased risks.Instacart mentioned similar sentiment, telling Techcrunch, Our goal is to continue to work with and serve the entire Instacart community safely, while also ensuring our customers have access to uninterrupted delivery and pickup services for the groceries and household essentials they need.For those who like this option and want to use it, just order as normal on Postmates.
Youll then be prompted to select your delivery preference before checking out.
The option is similar with your Instacart order.While weve so far only heard this option is being offered by these two delivery startups, were likely going to see more contactless rollouts as coronavirus fears continue to change our shopping habits in the next couple of months.