British households relying on food delivery apps for their weekly shop are facing eye-watering price markups that could see them paying double the supermarket rate for identical items, according to a stark warning from consumer watchdogs.
The Hidden Cost of Convenience
Popular delivery platforms including Just Eat, Uber Eats and Deliveroo are charging premium prices that significantly exceed standard supermarket rates, leaving consumers paying a heavy premium for the convenience of doorstep delivery.
An investigation into app-based grocery shopping has revealed systematic overcharging across multiple product categories, with some everyday essentials carrying markups of 100% or more compared to their in-store counterparts.
Where Your Money Really Goes
The price discrepancies aren't just limited to restaurant takeaways but extend to supermarket goods available through these platforms. Consumers are effectively paying three separate costs:
- The marked-up product price
- Delivery fees
- Service charges
This triple-whammy of additional costs means a simple grocery run could end up costing significantly more than budget-conscious shoppers might anticipate.
Platform Responses and Consumer Advice
Consumer protection groups are urging Britons to exercise caution when using delivery apps for grocery shopping and to compare prices directly with supermarket websites and physical stores.
Experts recommend:
- Always cross-check prices with supermarket websites before ordering through delivery apps
- Consider the total cost including delivery fees and service charges
- Explore supermarket-owned delivery services that may offer better value
- Reserve app-based deliveries for genuine emergencies rather than regular shopping
The findings highlight the growing concern around "convenience inflation" where digital platforms capitalise on consumer demand for immediate service delivery at premium prices.
As household budgets remain stretched amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, consumer advocates are calling for greater transparency from delivery platforms about their pricing structures and markup policies.
