Australia’s local food delivery platform to shut after two decades
Prosus is focused on core markets in Europe and the Australian closure is not related to Australia’s financial performance, said a source who was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.
“This strategic decision reflects our focus on accelerating growth and investments in other markets and delivering the best experience for customers, partners and couriers,” Just Eat Takeaway.com said in a statement.
Menulog local general manager Morten Belling said it was a tough day for business.
“I would like to reassure everyone that this decision was not taken lightly,” Belling said in a statement.
“Our priority now is to support our customers, couriers and partners. That’s why we’re providing everyone with a two-week transition period during which customers can redeem unused vouchers and credits.”
The closure follows years of mounting financial losses at Dutch parent company Just Eat takeaway.com. Menulog’s segment is reporting a loss of €80 million ($140 million) in 2024, while the platform’s Australian market share has fallen from 24 percent at the beginning of 2022 to less than 10 percent by September this year. The platform’s global revenue dropped from $447.8 million in 2021 to $244.6 million in 2024, according to IBISWorld data. Menulog ceased operations in New Zealand in May this year.
While pandemic quarantines temporarily increased uptake of food delivery services, Menulog added, “Did someone say… Menulog?” He tried to raise his profile against Uber’s aggressive marketing by starring Snoop Dogg and Katy Perry in the ad campaigns that popularized his song.
He has also created local campaigns featuring hip hop duo Bliss n Eso, Baker Boy and Big Twisty.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) has called for the remaining food platforms in Australia, including Uber Eats, DoorDash, Hungry Panda and Easi, to strengthen gig economy standards.
“Workers in the gig economy are still devastated by sub-minimum wage rates, lack of sick leave or retirement, and deadly pressure to rush to make ends meet and avoid being disabled,” said TWU national secretary Michael Kaine.
He argued that “decades of neglect” had led to a stagnation in gig economy laws, leading to “exploitative and dangerous” businesses, fewer players in the market and reduced competition.
“We urgently need standards in the gig economy to stop the relentless downward spiral. New laws introduced by the Albanian government will significantly level the playing field – but DoorDash, Uber Eats, Hungry Panda and Easi now need to come to the table to ensure we introduce standards as quickly as possible.”
More to come
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