MDF & FijiEats Launch
A new mobile app-based food delivery platform – FijiEats – was launched in Suva today with an aim to boost the sales of local food businesses and provide an extra income opportunity for local drivers and cyclists.
The new FijiEats mobile app was developed by local ICT company Shazcom Technology in partnership with Australian funded Market Development Facility (MDF).
We are proud to launch this new service to help restaurants and cafes who have suffered due to COVID-19 while also giving customers the opportunity to continue enjoying their favourite meals without having to venture out during this time,” said Shanil Chandra, Managing Director of Shazcom Technology at today’s launch.
“FijiEats took a few months to develop and will feature online payment options and trackable delivery to customers. Our drivers are also trained in food safety, customer etiquette and are equipped with proper food storage equipment,” Chandra added.
A recent survey carried out by MDF, found that food vendors in Suva experienced a sudden drop in the number of dine-in and walk-in customers since the COVID-19 lockdown and implementation of social distancing measures in March and April this year, resulting in a 40 percent to 100 percent drop in sales.
“The MDF survey found that a number of small food vendors in Suva have turned their focus to food pick up and food delivery options but many complained about the lack of a professional and affordable specialised food delivery services. Following COVID-19, food safety and hygiene are now becoming increasing important for those ordering food,” said Malcolm Bossley, MDF Fiji Country Director.
“MDF’s work is focussed on supporting innovation as companies adapt to COVID-19, and we are proud to partner with Shazcom and support the launch of the new Fiji Eats app, which offers both local businesses and customers a new and improved food delivery option for Fiji,” Bossley added.
FijiEats currently provides food delivery service for food vendors in Suva and Nadi with plans to expand its platform in the near future. Prominent restaurants that have already signed up include Govindas, Swagat and the Mad hatter.
The FijiEats app can now be downloaded off the Play Store for Android and Apple app store for Apple phones by 23rd June 2020. The Online food delivery industry is already big business globally and according to Forbes is projected to be worth around US $200 billion dollars in the next five years.
