Delivery apps externalize downturns onto drivers

Delivery platforms keep orders flowing in lean times by using algorithmic tiers that require drivers to accept many low‑ or no‑tip jobs to retain access to better‑paid ones. This design makes the service feel 'affordable' to consumers while pushing the recession’s pain onto gig workers, masking true demand softness. — It challenges headline readings of consumer resilience and inflation by revealing a hidden labor subsidy embedded in platform incentives.

Sources

No, I'm Not Tipping You

Jack Kubinec 2026.01.16 90% relevant

The article’s claim that 'migrants keep yuppies fed' and complains about exploitation maps directly onto the idea that platform delivery models externalize costs onto drivers and gig workers; the piece provides a cultural framing of that economic pattern (actor: delivery couriers/restaurant messengers; issue: labor exploitation).

Is Uber Eats a recession indicator?

Alexander Sorondo 2025.10.12 100% relevant

Uber Eats’ acceptance‑rate tiering and customer confusion over the 'delivery fee' leading to low tips, forcing drivers to take $2–$4 orders to keep priority status.