The Turkish rapid delivery company Getir has left Groningen after just over a year of operations, RTV Noord reports. The company, which offers delivery of groceries and other items within minutes, said that it was leaving Groningen due to “economic reasons.”
Getir entered the Groningen market in September 2021, and quickly became popular with customers. However, it has also encountered growing challenges from competitors with equally goofy names like Gorillas and Flink. These companies have been offering similar services at lower prices, which has put pressure on Getir’s margins.
In addition, Getir has been facing financial difficulties in recent months. The company is reportedly losing money in many of its markets and has been forced to lay off staff.
Getir’s departure from Groningen is a blow to the city’s economy. The company employed around 100 people in Groningen, and its closure will have a knock-on effect on other businesses in the city.
The closure of Getir also raises questions about the future of the rapid delivery sector in the Netherlands. The sector has been growing rapidly in recent years, but it is now facing increasing competition and financial challenges.
Local businesses in some Dutch cities, including Groningen, have criticized rapid grocery-delivery companies for unfair competition. They have claimed that these companies have a clear advantage, as they are not subject to the same rules as conventional grocery stores. For example, rapid delivery companies are not required to have a physical storefront or to pay the same taxes as traditional stores.
Rapid grocery-delivery services face backlash from Groningen
Other businesses have accused the rapid delivery companies of causing more traffic and environmental problems.
The backlash from local businesses has led to calls for regulation of the rapid delivery sector. The government is currently considering whether to introduce new regulations for the sector.
The departure of Getir from Groningen is a sign that the rapid delivery sector is maturing, and companies will need to find ways to adapt and survive.
Image via WikiUser Donald Trung, license here
