The Bolt app has revolutionized the way we order and receive meals, making it convenient for consumers to have their favorite dishes delivered right to their doorsteps. However, while these apps may seem like a great solution for busy individuals and families, this app also has a strong negative impact on the restaurant-client relationship. This can ultimately lead to a decline in the level of care that businesses have for their consumers.
One of the main issues with food delivery apps in general, but specifically Bolt is that they often take a large commission from the restaurants for each order placed through the app, as you might know, Bolt takes between 12 and 15 percent per meal ordered. This can lead to a significant loss of revenue for the restaurant, which can negatively impact the quality of the food and service provided to customers. Restaurants may also feel compelled to raise their prices in order to compensate for the loss of revenue, which can make it more difficult for customers to afford to eat out, which is what has been happening here in Malta.
Another issue with this app is that it creates a disconnect between the restaurant and the customer. With the use of food delivery apps, customers no longer have to interact with the restaurant staff or visit the restaurant in person. This can lead to a lack of personalization and a lack of understanding of the customer’s needs and preferences, and of course deleted the whole consumer experience that for me at least, is part of when you eat food from a restaurant. Restaurants may also be less likely to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction if they don’t have a direct relationship with the customer.
Furthermore, food delivery apps can also affect the quality of the food being delivered. Due to the nature of transportation and handling, food may arrive at the customers’ location cold or soggy, and the packaging may not be suitable to keep the food in good condition. This can lead to customer dissatisfaction and loss of reputation for the restaurant. I’m sure all of us had more than one bad experience when ordering food.
Additionally, Bolt also encourages the use of disposable packaging, leading to more waste and pollution. The app requires that the food be packaged in disposable containers, which can be harmful to the environment and contribute to the growing problem of plastic waste, and we all agree we don’t need more problems in Malta.
Restaurants may also feel pressure to use disposable packaging in order to comply with the requirements of the food delivery apps, even if they would prefer to use more sustainable alternatives.
In conclusion, while this fascinating app may seem like a convenient solution for busy individuals and families, it also has a negative impact on the restaurant-client relationship. The large commission taken per order, the disconnect between the restaurant and the customer, the potential negative impact on the quality of the food, and the use of disposable packaging can all lead to a decline in the level of care that businesses have for their consumers. Bolt should disappear and allow restaurants to have a direct relationship with their customers, provide better quality food, and help reduce waste and pollution, and of course, we should enjoy more of our Island, the day and nightlife.
November 10, 2024
