INDIANAPOLIS — Grubhub announced Monday it is taking steps to help independent restaurants that have been hurt by preventative measures introduced during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Grubhub CEO Matt Mahoney said in an email to customers the food delivery service will defer commission fees for impacted independent restaurants. Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said Monday that restaurants and bars in the state will be closed to in-person patrons in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
"Delaying our revenue will increase the restaurant's cash flow, allowing them to pay their employees and weather this difficult situation," Mahoney said. "We are also matching all promotions run by independent restaurants with our Smart Promotions feature, to help make their investments in growth twice as effective."
Mahoney also said the company created the Grubhub Community Relief Fund, in which all Donate the Change contributions will go to charitable organizations that support drivers and restaurants impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.
Grubhub will also add contact-free delivery to its website and app. Mahoney said drivers will call or text when they arrive and drop off orders on the doorstep, in the lobby or another designated location.
"Local independent restaurants are the lifeblood of our communities and we must do everything we can to get them through this time of uncertainty," Mahoney said. "With empty dining rooms, restaurants are depending on pickup and delivery orders more than ever."
