Uber Eats Launches Eat Local Initiative
Uber Technologies Inc. launches its Eat Local campaign to support independent restaurant owners and operators in 2021 as the industry continues to face COVID-related challenges.
Uber Eats is committing $20 million through various initiatives, including:
- $4.5 million in microgrants to be administered by LISC, pledged to support restaurants active on Uber’s platforms in any U.S. city with financial challenges related to the pandemic
- Waived and reduced fees for restaurants who use Uber Eats services: 0% for Pickup, 0% for processing orders directly on their own websites, and $0 to receive daily payouts to help increase reliable daily cash flow through July 2021.
- Reduced delivery fees for consumers on all Uber Eats orders from independent U.S. restaurants, and dedicated marketing campaigns—both in-app and via email—to promote delivery from local restaurants
- Uber matching to all consumer contributions to restaurants made using the Restaurant Contribution feature in Uber Eats
Additional benefits include extensions of previously announced programs for restaurants to receive daily payouts, rather than the company’s standard weekly payout, and restaurant fee reductions on all Pickup orders and orders processed through its Online Ordering service on independent restaurant websites.
“The U.S. Black Chambers (USBC) applauds Uber’s commitment to small business owners who rely on its platform to reach customers, particularly as restaurants navigate a challenging winter,” said Ron Busby, President of USBC. "Black-owned restaurants have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, and we are delighted that our members will benefit from the $4.5 million grant program and continued waived fees."
“Restaurants continue to face unprecedented challenges this winter. Uber’s support underscores the importance of the entire restaurant and foodservice industry working together as one to advance our recovery efforts,” said Tom Bené, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association. “These microgrants will help independent restaurants stay open and continue serving their customers and their communities.”