DoorDash unveils ‘Gas Rewards’ program for drivers

SAN FRANCISCO — Food-delivery service DoorDash on Tuesday unveiled its “Gas Rewards” program to help its drivers offset surging fuel prices without passing the cost along to consumers.

>> Read more trending news

“Over the last few weeks, prices at the pump have increased all across the world, and for Dashers who deliver by car, this economic reality presents unique and unprecedented challenges,” the company stated in a news release.

Within the past week, ride-share apps Uber and Lyft have adopted fuel surcharges on all transactions to help their drivers better manage skyrocketing fuel prices, but customers will pay those fees that will then be passed on to drivers.

>> Related: Lyft to charge riders temporary fuel fee to offset surging gas prices

By contrast, San Francisco-based DoorDash will provide all U.S. delivery drivers as much as 10% cash back on gas via a prepaid debit card, and the rewards can be earned even when employees are not on the clock, the online delivery service confirmed.

DoorDash is also instituting weekly cash bonuses based on delivery volume.

“Dashers who accept and complete orders totaling 100 miles in a motor vehicle will earn an extra $5,” the company stated.

According to the company, drivers who qualify for both rewards programs could earn between $1.65 and $2.00 per gallon to offset gas prices.

“We know Dashers aren’t the only ones facing pain at the pump, and we’re not passing the cost of these programs on to consumers at this time,” a DoorDash spokesperson told CNBC.

The cash back reward program will begin March 17, and relief will stay in place “at least through April,” the company stated.

>> Related: Uber adding surcharge to rides, food deliveries amid surging gas prices

According to CNBC, oil prices hit $130 a barrel last week, lifting retail gasoline prices across the country.

The average cost of regular, unleaded gas in the U.S. is currently hovering around $4.32 per gallon, according to AAA, while the price in DoorDash’s home state of California has already surged to $5.75 a gallon, the network reported.

“We’ll continue to monitor gas prices, listen to the Dasher community, and seek feedback as we evolve these programs and explore additional resources in the coming weeks and months,” the company stated.

©2022 Cox Media Group