Delivery App 'Wolt' Accused of Inflating Grocery Prices

A recent investigation by C14 has revealed that the food delivery app Wolt significantly increases prices on basic grocery items, sometimes by tens or even hundreds of percent, compared to major supermarket chains. The price hikes 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 Shufersal Online, a major Israeli supermarket chain. For example, a 3% Tnuva yogurt pack costs NIS 23.90 on Wolt, versus NIS 18.90 on Shufersal Online. A pack of 16 Actimel drinks is priced at NIS 42.90 on Wolt, compared to NIS 34.90 at Shufersal Online. Similarly, GO drinks are NIS 16.90 on Wolt and NIS 14.10 on Shufersal Online, and a pack of Danone 1.7% yogurt costs NIS 20.90 on Wolt against NIS 19.90 on Shufersal Online.

C14 argues that these inflated prices, combined with additional fees, make using the app for small or quick purchases an unfavorable deal for Israeli consumers already struggling with the high cost of living. The report aims to highlight these discrepancies daily with five different products to help consumers navigate the rising costs.

A spokesperson for Wolt stated that prices on the platform are determined solely by the businesses themselves. They added that Wolt offers a wide selection of supermarkets and products at various price points, with all prices being transparent to consumers for informed decision-making.