By Ajay kumar | CEO & Editor-in-chief
Bengaluru, Karnataka (UNA) : Major food delivery companies Swiggy and Zomato have adjusted their incentive structures for delivery partners in response to ongoing gig worker strikes and heightened order volumes typical of the year-end period. The move comes as these platforms seek to maintain operational efficiency and customer service amid labour disruptions and increased demand. Overall activity in the food delivery segment has encountered short-term challenges due to labour actions by gig workers demanding improved earnings and working conditions. This coincides with peak festive and holiday season demand, putting additional pressure on service delivery timelines and platform reliability. The decision to increase delivery incentives is aimed at mitigating the impact of reduced workforce participation during strikes and encouraging greater availability of delivery partners on the road. Higher incentive payouts are expected to attract gig workers back into active service and help platforms cope with surging order volumes from consumers. In terms of specific response, both Swiggy and Zomato have communicated revised incentive plans directly to delivery partners, reflecting targeted adjustments in pay per order and bonus structures. These changes are designed to balance worker engagement with operational needs, particularly during a period of elevated activity. Market observers noted that the food delivery segment remains competitive, with platforms continually adapting to labour dynamics and seasonal fluctuations. Analysts said that while higher incentives can address short-term supply gaps, broader discussions around gig worker welfare and sustainable earnings models are likely to persist as structural industry considerations.