The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union has criticized Swiggy on X for charging its delivery agents for branded kits, which include raincoats, bags, and t-shirts featuring Swiggy’s logo.
Swiggy’s Delivery Age
The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union took to X to question Swiggy’s policy of requiring delivery agents to pay for their own branded kits, which prominently display the company’s logo.
“Dear @Swiggy, why are delivery workers being charged for a bag, raincoat, and t-shirt that promote your brand? If it’s for promoting #swiggy, they shouldn’t have to pay for it,” the Union posted.
The Union shared screenshots revealing the costs: the raincoat is priced at Rs 749, the bag at Rs 299 after a discount (originally Rs 899), and the complete kit, which includes two shirts and a bag, at Rs 1199.
Criticism intensified as the Union highlighted that agents are penalized for not carrying the branded bag and are responsible for replacing it if lost or damaged, at their own expense. The screenshot stated, “Carrying Swiggy bags to ensure hygienic deliveries is of utmost importance.”
Social Media Reaction:
The post has garnered significant attention, with many users condemning the practice.
One user wrote, “The bag and uniform should be free upon joining. Rs 1199 is excessive. It’s cheaper to buy a bunch of orange t-shirts from Zudio.”
Another user commented, “Even the Supreme Court says that if a bag displays a brand logo, it shouldn’t be charged. And look at @Swiggy here.”
A third user replied, “No wonder they ask us to tip the riders on every delivery. It seems that’s the only way they can survive. All pay will be deducted by Swiggy one way or another. ‘Please offer a tip to your driver’ is the threshold of capitalism vs survival.”