The three major food delivery platform companies, Deliveroo, Foodpanda and Grab, have come together to launch the Digital Platforms Industry Association (DPIA) in Singapore.

Through the association, these platform companies will strengthen the frameworks, guidelines, and policies that support their delivery partners and merchants, DPIA said in a statement.

According to the statement, globally, the food delivery industry has grown rapidly, rising to a peak in public consciousness during the pandemic. It is today both an essential service and an exciting new economic sector.

Consumers have benefitted from the convenience of having food delivered to their doors and the increased selection that food delivery platforms provide, it said.

Restaurants as well as all food and beverage partners are enjoying the additional revenue that food delivery generates, which was also a lifeline during the pandemic lockdowns; while riders have flexible earnings opportunities that platform work provides, it added.

These trends will continue to be key drivers of digitally-centred economies in Singapore and around the world, it said.

As an industry representative, it said DPIA will tap on the expertise and experience of its member platform companies to enhance industry best practices and support Singapore’s digital economy.

DPIA will also provide upskilling opportunities and strengthen existing health and safety standards for its members’ delivery partners and merchants.

“For platform companies, the well-being of our delivery partners and merchants across the marketplace is paramount. That’s why DPIA was established – to consolidate the deep industry expertise of platforms and shape the development and growth of the industry within Singapore’s national economy,” shared the three platforms.

DPIA’s founders believe that creating real and sustainable change requires consistent support from all stakeholders.

Since 2021, DPIA’s members have actively contributed to the consultation process with multiple government stakeholders, the National Delivery Champions Association (NDCA), and industry stakeholders on better supporting delivery partners.

They are also working with the Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSHC) on guidelines for platforms and employers to boost road safety practices among delivery partners.

In the coming months, DPIA said it will identify areas of improvement and collaborate with the government and industry stakeholders such as the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF).

It will create solutions that reflect the voices of its delivery partners and merchants, both of whom are core to platform companies’ operations.

In addition, DPIA intends to launch an industry code of practice to be adopted by its members. The code will incorporate industry best practices and principles relating to health and safety of its delivery partners and merchant development.

Malaysia’s Grab, Foodpanda food delivery riders on 24-hour strike, call for better fees & benefits – report