As winter approaches, Chinese major meal delivery company Meituan has initiated its winter care activities nationwide this month, in an effort to ensure a safe and improved working environment for its delivery drivers.

A total of 1.7 billion yuan ($235 million) has been allocated for winter subsidies so far, guaranteeing fair compensation for drivers' hard work during winter times. The company has also distributed winter gear such as windshields for e-scooters, handlebar covers, gloves, knee pads, and insulated cups to delivery staff with an upgraded emergency response mechanism for adverse weather conditions.

Under the mechanism, during extreme weather conditions such as snowstorms and strong winds, Meituan dynamically adjusts delivery radius to minimize the outdoor time of delivery drivers. It also disburses winter healthcare allowances for minor illnesses and grants free usage for delivery lockers where food can be kept warm and safe. The Meituan app proactively sends real-time risk protection alerts and highlights the locations of nearby service stations to drivers within the affected regions, enhancing the safety, well-being, and overall support provided to delivery personnel during challenging weather situations.

To facilitate riders in taking breaks and obtaining supplies at their convenience, Meituan has collaborated with various sectors of society to establish over 38,000 service stations across the country this year, providing a range of convenient services, such as drinking water, restrooms, cell phone charging and food heating. The health zones of the stations are also equipped with first-aid supplies and winter medical essentials such as cold medicine and frostbite ointment, addressing common health concerns during winter.

Most of the stations are within a one-kilometer radius of popular urban business areas, making it convenient for deliveries at any time. Delivery drivers can view locations of nearby stations and navigate to them simply through the "station map" in the delivery App.

Meituan has also carried out a mobile physical examination campaign in a dozen cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Changchun, to provide professional, free, fast and convenient physical examination services to its drivers and improve their risk-preventing ability as much as possible.

lijiaying@chinadaily.com.cn