Waitr Inc., the on-demand food ordering and delivery platform, has announced new initiatives to support its delivery drivers as gasoline prices continue to surge across the nation.
Lafayette, La.-based Waitr said Wednesday that it has implemented a new GasCard program, giving drivers 5% off on gas from all major gas stations. The GasCard is embedded within the driver app, allowing drivers to receive the discount immediately after purchasing a card.
“Drivers are an important part of our business and the record-high gas prices are directly impacting them,” said Carl Grimstad, Waitr’s CEO and chairman, in a statement. “We have implemented this GasCard program as a way to help combat this issue.”
Recent surveys have found consumers are noticing the gas price increases and figuring that into how they make pocketbook decisions, including restaurant purchase
Waitr said that in addition to the GasCard, it is adjusting driver pay as another way to help its fleet.
Chris Barnes, director of driver experience and delivery logistics, said Waitr customers are also helping in their own way.
“We have heard from some drivers that they’ve seen an uptick in tips,” Barnes said. “Our loyal customers know fuel costs are affecting their pay, and many are responding.:
In 2018, Landry’s owner Tilman Fertitta’s Landcadia Holdings Inc. of Houston agreed to acquire Waitr Inc. for $308 million.
In January, Waitr announced its intention to acquire cannabis dispensary compliance POS company, Cova
As of Dec. 31, Waitr and its other delivery services operated in about 1,000 U.S. cities.
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