SkipTheDishes is forcing British Columbians who order-in to pay more in what’s being called a “tone-deaf” move by B.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association president Ian Tostenson.
On Wednesday, the company tacked on a $0.99 surcharge on B.C. orders after the province introduced a cap on delivery fees amid the pandemic.
“Previously, apps like SkipTheDishes charged around 30 per cent to restaurants for providing delivery services,” explained Tostenson.
Food Service COVID-19 legislation now restricts apps like SkipTheDishes from charging restaurants more than 15 per cent of a meal’s cost for delivery.
The emergency order also prevents companies from cutting the pay of delivery drivers.
A SkipTheDishes spokesperson told Black Press Media the “B.C. fee” was added to prevent “impact to the service and support we’re able to provide all of our stakeholders.”
Tostenson said restaurant owners are being “held hostage” by food courier companies like SkipTheDishes, which stand to profit off their need to pivot their business strategy amid the pandemic.
“Delivery became critical as in-store dining was restricted,” the CEO explained. “It’s disrespectful to do this.”
The B.C. fee is the first temporary surcharge SkipTheDishes has added to its services. It plans to rescind the fee when the order is lifted.
READ MORE: B.C. caps restaurant delivery fees at 15%, temporarily
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