This new initiative is part of the ‘panda hearts’ programme to enhance delivery partners’ work experience
Singapore, 30 July 2024 – foodpanda, Singapore’s leading food and grocery delivery platform, has introduced bursaries to support its delivery partners and their family members. For the first time, education grants totalling $10,500 were awarded to 30 foodpanda delivery partners or family member beneficiaries at the pandarider awards, an annual event celebrating the achievements of foodpanda delivery partners. The initiative is part of panda hearts, foodpanda’s flagship programme to engage and support delivery partners.
“Delivery partners are the backbone of our platform. We are committed to providing them with meaningful opportunities for personal growth and success,” explains Jonathan Borenstein, Head of Logistics, foodpanda Singapore. “We recognise that our delivery partners have diverse needs and aspirations, such as up-skilling and supporting their family members’ education. The bursary was introduced to address these needs by providing financial support that empowers our delivery partners to achieve their goals and enhance their lives.”
Delivery partners or their family members have received up to $400 in cash to offset the costs of their education or up-skilling courses. The bursary amount corresponds to the beneficiary’s level of education – with primary school recipients receiving $200, secondary school recipients receiving $300 and tertiary-level recipients or those taking up-skilling courses receiving $400.
Danish Bin Said, a 28 year-old full-time student who is pursuing a diploma in banking and finance, is a bursary recipient. “Food delivery offers me the flexibility to work around my school schedule, a benefit I have not found in other part-time jobs. It enables me to be financially independent and support my family, especially since my father is unable to work due to poor health. This bursary will help to cover part of my school expenses, so I can concentrate on my studies,” he says.
Expanding panda hearts in Singapore
In the coming months, foodpanda will double down on welfare and engagement initiatives for delivery partners in Singapore under panda hearts, with efforts focused on five core areas that delivery partners value:
“Personal Development” provides delivery partners with a range of opportunities for growth, allowing them to work towards individual aspirations. In addition to the bursaries, delivery partners have access to upskilling courses and financial literacy workshops.
“Well-being” focuses on safeguarding delivery partners’ well-being through health screenings, mental health assistance programmes, exercise events and more. In Singapore, delivery partners receive complimentary insurance coverage during their sessions, and concessions on telemedicine consultations, fitness classes and more.
“Safety” encompasses initiatives that encourage delivery partners to prioritise their safety on the road, including safety training courses, safety bonuses and allowances, and app features for easier navigation on-the-go. foodpanda will also be distributing more than 1,000 safety and essential kits with items such as a mini first aid kit, vehicle tool kit, helmets and more within the year.
“Community” aims to build a dependable support system, where delivery riders can easily resolve issues and share feedback. The physical pandarider hubs provide onsite support and respite during adverse weather conditions such as rain or hot weather, as well as providing a space for delivery partners to wind down with refreshments or connect with others.
“Welfare Perks” offer delivery partners a wide range of additional exclusive benefits to help alleviate the cost of living, including food and grocery discounts, and subsidised petrol. In Singapore, delivery partners are offered free bicycle rentals or affordable e-bike instalment plans, as well as referrals to affordable motorbike rentals, vehicle servicing and repairs and discounts on petrol.