The Delivery Paradox - Reviving and Disrupting the High Street

A decade of change has transformed the high street. The way consumers shop and dine has been revolutionised by the rise in popularity of delivery apps like Uber Eats, Just Eat and Deliveroo. These platforms have served as both lifelines and disruptors to the high street, bringing a wide mix of benefits. While these services have offered critical support and convenience to high street businesses, they also present various challenges that will require a thoughtful and balanced approach in order to be managed effectively. 

The Lifeline 

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, delivery platforms saved a number of high street businesses. Restaurants, cafes and stores faced numerous lockdowns and ever changing social distancing rules, which largely impacted the way these businesses operated. Delivery platforms offered a crucial way for businesses to reach their customers despite the turbulent socio-economic environment. In store dining was drastically reduced, but delivery services allowed businesses to maintain vital revenue streams, with delivery riders serving as key essential workers during this time. 

Unintended consequences

Four years later, things are different. The hyper growth of these platforms, fuelled by the pandemic has not been all plain sailing. One of the main unintended issues has been the increased safety risks and congestion on UK high streets. The gig economy model that these platforms operate under often places delivery riders under significant amounts of time-pressure, contributing to congestion, pedestrian accidents and safety concerns. Intense competition between aggregators, exacerbated by high food inflation and increased living costs has pressured riders further to prioritise speed over safety. 

As all these services have gained popularity in the last 10 years, the infrastructure to accommodate both pedestrians and the increase in food delivery drivers was never planned for. While delivery services offer convenience for consumers, they inadvertently harm traditional high street foot traffic. As more people opt to order online, independent and small businesses face the increased likelihood of closure, impacting the vibrancy and diversity of the high street.

Future prospects

It’s undeniable that delivery services have saved many high street businesses during challenging times and allowed them to reach a large number of consumers via online delivery. That being said, it is important that these gains do not come at the cost of safety and accessibility for the general public and delivery riders. A concerted effort is required from all stakeholders involved. 

At ridesuite , we’re here to help businesses and local authorities alike to navigate this challenging and ever evolving landscape. Leveraging our deep expertise in delivery services, the gig economy and rider models, we offer tailored solutions that assist in ensuring public spaces such as the high street are optimised for the complexities of urban commerce.

Reach out to myself here today to learn more about how we can assist and start to make an impact in improving the high street experience.