FOODPANDA OFFERING ‘VIABLE OPTION FOR EARNING A LIVING’
Those without vehicle or driver’s licence can join as ‘Walkers’, says MD
FOODPANDA, a leading online food and grocery delivery platform in the country, wants more Malaysians to join its management team, rider fleet or even as part of the “foodpanda Walkers”.
“Last year, we created more than 80 positions at our offices as well as hired more than 200 new employees,” said foodpanda Malaysia managing director Sayantan Das.
“Our rider base increased to more than 35,000 as at the end of last year from 13,000 at the start of the year — a 169 per cent increase,” he told New Straits Times in an interview.
He said last year, the company introduced foodpanda Walkers (walker option for deliveries) as its most accessible and inclusive career option.
“For many Malaysians, particularly those who do not have a vehicle or driver’s licence, they now have a viable option for earning a living.
“As at the end of last year, we had more than 2,500 Walkers in 11 states. We hope to give more Malaysians the opportunity to work and earn a living.”
Das said the company had also seen an increased demand and strong adoption of its Cloud Kitchen.
He said the Movement Control Order (MCO) encouraged more established restaurants and startups to try this less risky route for their food and beverage (F&B) business.
“We expect demand will continue to grow this year even after the MCO is lifted. The convenience and savings cannot be denied and we believe that in time, more F&B business owners will prefer this option, especially small and medium enterprises.”
Das is optimistic about the company’s outlook for this year, with a plan to focus on pandamart “as there is where we the most room to expand”.
“We believe the market is bright. Circumstances arising from the Covid-19 pandemic helped push the industry to a new high and accelerated digitalisation from the business and user adoption perspectives.
“These circumstances continue to exist this year and now with businesses and users that are more open to transact digitally, we are confident of an equally impressive year,” he added.