From Berlin to New York, millions turned to grocery delivery firms during pandemic lockdowns, and the companies gobbled up billions in venture capital and other investment. But worker discontent, a drop-off in investment and reduced demand all suggest a hard landing from the stellar growth of the pandemic era
A file photo of a courier for the food delivery service Getir, as he prepares to deliver an order in Barcelona, Spain, on Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022. (Image: Angel Garcia/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Paris, France: Prathamesh Jathar is one of many brightly dressed riders zipping through the streets of Berlin, dropping off groceries just minutes after the orders come in.
The 25-year-old Master's student from Mumbai could be a poster-child for the multibillion-dollar "quick commerce" sector, but instead he symbolises the malaise.
"Working conditions are terrible," he said, complaining that his employer, Turkish start-up Getir, fails to supply safety equipment or managerial support and did not tolerate unionisation—claims the firm denies.
Worker discontent, a drop-off in investment and reduced demand all suggest a hard landing from the stellar growth of the pandemic era.