Wolt App Overcharges for Groceries, Investigation Finds

An investigation by C14 has revealed that the rapid grocery delivery app Wolt significantly inflates prices on basic food items, often by tens or even hundreds of percent, compared to major supermarket chains. These inflated prices are evident even before factoring in delivery fees, service charges, and tips for the delivery person.

The investigation compared prices on Wolt with those offered by "Makhsaney Hashuk Online," a large supermarket chain. For example, a 20-unit pack of Bamba snacks costs NIS 27.90 at Makhsaney Hashuk but NIS 31.90 on Wolt. Similarly, a 20-unit pack of Bissli snacks is NIS 14.90 at Makhsaney Hashuk versus NIS 16.90 on Wolt. A 10-unit pack of sweet Bamba is priced at NIS 11.50 online at Makhsaney Hashuk, while Wolt charges NIS 17.90.

Other items showing significant price discrepancies include Snyder's snacks, which cost NIS 18.90 at Makhsaney Hashuk and NIS 20.90 on Wolt, and Hot Pop popcorn, priced at NIS 16.90 at Makhsaney Hashuk and NIS 19.90 on Wolt.

The C14 report concludes that using the app for quick purchases or to complete small shopping lists can be very costly for Israeli consumers already struggling with the high cost of living. When the inflated product prices are combined with additional fees, the overall cost becomes a bad deal.

Wolt responded to the findings by stating, "The prices on the platform are determined solely by the businesses. Wolt presents a wide selection of supermarkets with a diverse range of products at various price points. All prices are transparent to the consumer, allowing for comparison and smart choices."