In Drive rolls out commission fees for drivers in Botswana. On February 28, Bolt was launched in Botswana to take on inDrive, which has been in the region since the year 2019.
inDrive Rolls Out Commission Fees in Botswana
It was recently shared with you that as part of its rollout strategy, Bolt will be waiving its standard 15-20% commission fee for drivers over a six-month period. This move aims to incentivize drivers and attract them to the platform as it enters the Botswana market.
Interestingly, prior to Bolt’s entry into Botswana, the sole ride-hailing company operating in the country, inDrive, did not impose any commission fees on its drivers. However, on the very day of Bolt’s launch in Botswana, inDrive introduced a 10% commission fee for drivers, marking a significant shift in its business model after five years of commission-free operation.
inDrive’s Decision To Implement Commission Fees
The timing of inDrive’s decision to implement commission fees coinciding with Bolt’s entry into the market raises eyebrows, especially considering Bolt’s temporary waiver of such fees for drivers. It suggests a competitive dynamic emerging between the two ride-hailing companies in Botswana.
In response to inquiries about the rationale behind inDrive’s sudden introduction of a commission fee, the company explained that it forms part of a broader strategy aimed at increasing investments in Botswana, which it considers a priority market for expansion and growth.
Bolt’s Expansion into Harare, Zimbabwe
On a related note, it’s worth mentioning that in January, Bolt announced its expansion into Harare, Zimbabwe, accompanied by a similar move of waiving driver commissions for the initial six months. This indicates a pattern of strategic market entry and aggressive competition from Bolt in various African markets.
Bolt’s Strategy of Incentivizing Drivers via Commission Waivers
In contrast to Bolt’s strategy of incentivizing drivers through commission waivers, inDrive disclosed its plans to diversify its offerings by providing financial services products in the markets where it operates. This includes extending small loans to drivers and demonstrating a different approach to driver engagement and support.
What the Introduction of Commission Fees by inDrive Means
Overall, the introduction of commission fees by inDrive and Bolt’s temporary waiver of such fees reflect the evolving competitive landscape in the ride-hailing industry in Botswana and other African markets. It underscores the importance of strategic maneuvers and innovative approaches to attract drivers and gain market share amidst intensifying competition.
MORE RELATED POSTS
