September 4, 2025
Zomato has raised its platform fee from ₹10 to ₹12 per order, aligning the move with the upcoming festive season when food delivery demand is expected to surge. Rival Swiggy has also increased its platform fee, charging ₹14 per order, signaling a broader trend among major online food delivery platforms.
The fee adjustments by Zomato and Swiggy come amid rising operational costs and increased demand during festival periods. Industry experts say such increases are common ahead of the festive season, as platforms aim to manage logistics and maintain service quality.
For Zomato, the ₹2 hike per order is intended to offset costs associated with delivery operations, technology infrastructure, and workforce management. Swiggy’s increase of ₹4 per order follows a similar strategy to safeguard revenue margins during peak periods.
Customer reactions to the fee hikes have been mixed. While some users consider the increase minor, others express concerns about the cumulative impact when combined with restaurant markups and surge pricing. Analysts suggest that platforms may roll out festive promotions, discounts, or loyalty incentives to counter potential dissatisfaction.
The move also reflects the intense competition in India’s food delivery sector. Zomato and Swiggy dominate the market, but smaller regional platforms are offering lower fees and attractive discounts to gain market share. The platform fee adjustments underscore the balancing act these companies face—sustaining operational efficiency while retaining a loyal customer base.
As the festive season approaches, the recent platform fee increases by Zomato and Swiggy highlight the evolving dynamics of India’s online food delivery market. While consumers may face slightly higher costs, the companies aim to ensure smoother operations and quality service during peak demand periods.
