Rapido’s zero-commission food delivery platform Ownly has captured nearly 10% of Bengaluru’s online food delivery market since its standalone app launch in March, according to inc42.com. The platform’s integration into Rapido’s main app this week allows users to order food alongside bike taxis, autos, and cab bookings, positioning Ownly as an alternative to dominant players Swiggy and Zomato.
The rise of Ownly comes amid escalating tensions between Bengaluru’s restaurant owners and Swiggy over high commissions and other fees. The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), led by president and Wow! Momo cofounder Sagar Daryani, has demanded a resolution to the commission dispute by August 15. Restaurants have long complained about commissions of 25-35% and additional charges squeezing their margins, especially since the pandemic changed food delivery economics.
This shift in the market challenges the duopoly of Swiggy and Zomato, which have dominated India’s food delivery sector for years. Ownly’s zero-commission model offers restaurants a way to reduce costs and improve profitability. The integration of Ownly’s service into Rapido’s existing ride-hailing app also leverages Rapido’s established user base, potentially increasing adoption and competition in Bengaluru’s food delivery space.
Rapido’s move to integrate Ownly into its main app this week marks a strategic effort to expand its footprint in online food delivery. The National Restaurant Association of India’s August 15 deadline for commission resolution adds urgency to the market dynamics, with Ownly positioned as a growing alternative for Bengaluru’s restaurants and consumers.