Food delivery platform Zomato has removed the rain fee surge waiver offered to Gold members amid a broader slowdown in food delivery and to focus on profitability.

An informal check of the app showed that Zomato will introduce a surge fee for Gold members beginning May 16, stating that this measure is to ensure fair compensation for delivery partners. The fee was earlier exempted as part of Gold Membership benefits, which has more than 20 lakh members.

Zomato, the food delivery division of Eternal, boasts more than 4.4 lakh delivery partners. During rainy periods, these partners gain extra income as a reward for the additional work required. This extra payout is partly subsidized by the platform for Gold users, whereas other clients incur a minor rain surge fee between Rs 10 and Rs 15.

This progress occurs as Eternal, in its quarterly report, announced sluggish expansion in its food delivery sector, impacted by a general decline in urban demand, lack of delivery partners, and the rise of quick commerce.

"We are working on several promising initiatives - we hope some succeed and contribute to increased growth without sacrificing profitability," Eternal stated in its quarterly shareholder letter, indicating the company's main aim to achieve growth profitably.

Also Read: Is Starlink Bringing an Internet Revolution to India?

Zomato is a tech platform that links customers, eateries, and delivery associates. It enables users to look for restaurants, check reviews, place food orders, reserve tables, and complete payments. Zomato offers marketing tools, delivery solutions, and a sourcing platform named Hyperpure for restaurants.