Postmates is a food and essential goods delivery company that has enjoyed considerable success in the US. Its presence in this service in the country was well established, and this attracted Uber's interest. The food delivery service Uber Eats had been unable to close the gap with the leader DoorDash, which dominates almost half of the market there.
After a period of negotiations, and with the failure of the attempt to acquire GrubHub, which has more than 20% of the food delivery services via app in the EUA, Uber completes the purchase of Postmates for US$ 2,65 billion. With the acquisition, Uber becomes the second largest company in this market in the country.
Postmates continues to exist as normal
Uber will now own all of the shares in Postmates, which will continue to exist without fully integrating with Uber Eats. The apps will continue to operate separately, supported by a combined merchant network and more efficient distribution.
Thus, the structure of one of the pioneers in the delivery service of food, groceries, essential items and other goods in the US will be available to Uber Eats. In addition, Postmates has a portfolio of more than 600 thousand restaurants and retailers across the country, for delivery and pick-up, covering around 80% of the North American territory.
The Uber passenger transportation service suffered significant setbacks this year due to the pandemic. Social isolation and reduced travel and mobility were significant factors in this. The company's revenue fell by over 50%.
On the other hand, Uber Eats deliveries saw a 125% increase in revenue. And the factors behind these growth rates are also related to the pandemic. These figures may have influenced the company's attempts to buy Postmates, which was also posting good numbers.
However, some questions arise, as the number of companies competing in this market decreases. In addition to the worsening of existing problems such as labor issues with delivery drivers, service prices and lack of options for users and customers. With the political influence of these few companies increasing, it is necessary to remain vigilant.
Uber is a company that has already demonstrated that it always acts forcefully to defend its interests, not only in the US but around the world. The purchase of Postmates translates into even more power for this giant of transportation and delivery apps.
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