Online delivery platforms often face backlash for extra charges. Recently, a techie took to X (formerly Twitter) to express frustration over a ₹12 “packaging charge” levied by Zomato. Anand, the user, shared that his food package featured an advertisement for Bengaluru FC, sparking a debate over ethical practices.
“Hi @zomatocare. I ordered shawarma from Empire Restaurant, Bangalore, and paid ₹12 as packing charges. But the package was wrapped in @bengalurufc advertisement. Why should I pay for their advertisement? How many such boxes are being sent out for paying users?” Anand questioned in his post.
Hi @zomatocare I ordered shawarma from Empire Restorent, Bangalore and paid 12 rupee as packing charges . But found that the package is wrapped by @bengalurufc Advertisement. Why I need to pay for their Advertisement. How many orders rolled out with this box for paid users????? pic.twitter.com/gQxEyjOXKD
— Anand (@PiratesShield) December 15, 2024
The tweet gained traction, prompting an unexpected response from Bengaluru FC goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
In a lighthearted reply, Sandhu offered to refund the amount, writing, “GPay number dedo bhai – wapis karta hoon 12 rupees (Give me your GPay number, brother, I’ll return ₹12).” His response went viral, leaving many amused.
GPay number dedo bhai – wapis karta hoon 12 rupees. https://t.co/MWDBartmEa
— Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (@GurpreetGK) December 16, 2024
While some praised the goalkeeper’s humor, others focused on the ethical implications of such charges. “It’s not about ₹12; it’s about fairness. If customers pay packaging fees, the branding should be Zomato’s. Advertisements shouldn’t lead to additional charges,” a user commented.
Zomato has yet to address this specific complaint. However, in similar instances, the company clarified that “packaging charges are determined and earned by restaurant partners.”
The incident has reignited discussions on transparency in food delivery charges, highlighting customer concerns about fair practices.
