A Reddit user recently shared their experience with Uber Eats, posting receipts of identical orders from two years ago and now that revealed significant price increases. The user, okantos, explained that they no longer use the delivery service due to the high cost. The post included photos comparing receipts for the same orders from the same restaurant, two years apart.
According to the receipts, the price differences were quite notable. For instance, a pork banh mi that cost $7 two years ago now costs $10. Similarly, kimchi fries increased from $8 to $12.50, fried chicken steamed bao from $5 to $6.75, and kalbi beef taco from $5 to $6.50. The subtotal of the bill two years ago was $25, while the most recent bill amounted to $35.75 before additional fees, taxes, and tips. The total paid two years ago was $36.46, compared to $48.70 on the most recent bill, representing a 33.6% increase.
In the comments section, many users expressed their agreement with the high prices, stating that they had stopped using delivery apps due to the cost. Some users even mentioned that promotional discounts did not make the services more affordable, as prices were often doubled or increased significantly. However, one user disagreed, claiming to have taken advantage of buy one get one free deals and 40% off delivery specials, allowing them to get $100 worth of sushi for only $30.
Apart from the high prices, several users also criticized the fees charged by delivery apps. These fees, including delivery and service fees, often eat away any potential discounts. Some users mentioned that restaurants tend to list higher prices on the app, passing on the high fees charged by delivery apps to customers. Furthermore, thin profit margins for restaurants contribute to the price differences between ordering through Uber Eats and dining at the restaurant itself.
In addition to the cost and fees, some users mentioned other reasons for avoiding food delivery apps. For instance, one user pointed out the issue of delivery drivers using pedestrian sidewalks instead of designated lanes, causing inconvenience and safety concerns. This issue has become so prevalent that a Toronto councillor proposed the use of identifiers, such as plates, on commercial riders’ vehicles.
Regarding Uber Eats’ subscription service, Uber One, users in the comments discouraged signing up, claiming that the savings were not substantial. For a cost of $9.99 per month, Uber One offers a 5% discount on select orders and waives delivery fees at certain restaurants.
Overall, the Reddit post shed light on the significant price increases on Uber Eats and the various reasons why users have chosen to discontinue using the service.