Uber Stops Instant Food Delivery Option In New York

First Posted: Apr 21, 2016 04:41 AM EDT

Uber users from New York can no longer use the app to get a limited selection of meals that can be delivered to them in less than 10 minutes. Instead, the ride-share company started a new version of the service in a standalone dining app called UberEATS, which allows them to choose a limited selection of dishes for the same delivery process.

Uber is killing off its instant food delivery option in New York City https://t.co/T0pIXzJXmX pic.twitter.com/F6xgo4fLA9

— Sharing Economy (@SharingEconRR) April 19, 2016

Most of these delivery items were generally healthy food items such as salads and sandwiches from different restaurants around the city. Made at the beginning of the day, the meals are then transported to a Midtown commissary and then delivered to users who purchased them via the app.

The pre-fixed menu is carried around by Uber drivers in their cars. It is an attempt to maximize delivery efficiency. However, according to NY Eater, the company is discontinuing such service in New York, although their standard food delivery service is still continuing, and with an expanded menu at that.

Backing out of their instant delivery in New York could spell trouble for the company or be a representation of bigger troubles for startups that are trying to compete in food delivery. The industry may already be too crowded with food deliveries, and there isn't good enough business to be made if they're trying to be the fastest and cheapest option, noted Business Insider.

Uber explained their decision in not so many words, but the gist of it is that they are narrowing their focus. Despite discontinuing the service, the company is insistent that business has been growing. Michael Conti, general manager of UberEVERYTHING NYC, shared that since the launch of UberEATS, there has been an incredible response from the market, and Uber users have doubled the numbers since then.

Do you think the very limited menu via Instant Delivery is absolutely necessary for individuals on-the-go?