In a preemptive move to avert a major service disruption, leading food delivery platforms Zomato and Swiggy have announced increased payouts for their delivery partners. This decision comes amidst growing calls for a strike by gig workers on New Year's Eve, a night known for peak demand.
Strike Threat Looms Over Peak Demand Night
Industry sources indicate that a planned strike by delivery executives could severely impact operations not just for food delivery, but also for quick commerce services. The strike call for December 31, 2025, targets companies like Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, Instamart, and Zepto. This date is strategically chosen as it represents one of the highest demand periods of the entire year, with celebrations driving orders for food and last-minute supplies to an all-time high.
Companies Respond with Increased Incentives
Facing the prospect of crippled operations on a crucial business night, the firms have moved to boost financial incentives for their workers. While the exact percentage or amount of the increased payout was not detailed in the initial reports, the action is seen as a direct response to the strike threat. The move aims to ensure sufficient delivery personnel remain active to handle the expected surge in orders.
The news was reported by PTI and published on December 31, 2025, at 09:27 IST. The timing of the announcement, on the very morning of New Year's Eve, underscores the urgency of the situation for these platforms.
Broader Implications for the Gig Economy
This event highlights the ongoing tensions within India's gig economy, where worker demands for better pay and conditions often clash with business models. A successful strike on such a high-volume night demonstrates the significant collective bargaining power delivery workers can wield. The companies' swift reaction to raise payouts indicates the critical importance of maintaining service reliability, especially during festive and peak periods when customer expectations are highest.
The outcome of this standoff will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled during future peak seasons. For now, customers across major Indian cities hope the increased incentives will be enough to ensure their New Year's Eve celebrations are not interrupted by a lack of delivery services.
