Zomato’s app in the UAE will no longer be used for ordering food, from November 24. Instead, Zomato users will be redirected to the Talabat app to order food.
Caterer Middle East was sent an email from Zomato to its partner restaurants that informed them of the change.
“We want to thank you for being a trusted partner of Zomato food ordering over the years. Your contribution has been significant in offering a great experience to and delighting our beloved customers. We wish you the very best for the continued growth of your business and look forward to partnering with you in the growth of your dining out business,” the email said.
Any monies owed to the restaurant partners by Zomato for pending amounts, unused advertising spend or credit notes will be credited by December 30 2022, added the email.
Some Zomato staff in the UAE will reportedly lose their jobs, however, Zomato told Caterer that those members of staff affected will be looked after as much as possible.
Alongside the closure of the Zomato app, a new ‘discovery platform’ will launch. ‘Vibe Check’ has already been trialled across India and acts as an Instagram Stories-like platform where restaurants can post updates and videos to users.
Zomato’s email said: “We are redefining the way our customers experience dining out through the launch of a new feature called ‘Vibe check’ along with ‘Zomato Pay’ which will further enhance the value for our customers as well as restaurant partners.”
Zomato Pay is expected to replace the Zomato food ordering app in the emirates and will give users the chance to pay using the app in participating restaurants.
Zomato sent Caterer a statement, clarifying the changes.
It said: “With new features like Vibe Check and additional offers via Zomato Pay, we have renewed our focus on restaurant discovery and dining out, and as a result, it will no longer be possible to order food in the UAE through our app, from November 24 onwards.
“We are proud of and grateful for the Talabat-Zomato partnership and the role we played in supporting many great local restaurants in growing their online businesses on our platform, whilst at the same time delighting customers with their favourite meals, delivered by committed Talabat riders.
“Customers can continue to order from their preferred restaurants on the Talabat app, including many of their Zomato-loved brands such as Bikanervala, Puranmal, Filli, Dyar Al Sham, Chicking, Wok Boyz, amongst many others. Restaurant partners can also choose to join Talabat to grow their businesses while offering their customers the delivery experience Talabat brings.
“As an organisation, we are well-positioned to support our people adequately and are here to enable this transition in the best way possible for their careers. The severance package extended includes financial and outplacement support along with due healthcare benefits.”
