See the shocking mistake an Uber driver made with groceries worth $100 – Could this happen to your next order?

In an age where convenience is king and online services are becoming increasingly integrated into our daily lives, the rise of grocery delivery has been a godsend for many, particularly for those of us in the over 60s bracket who may find the weekly shop a bit more challenging than we used to. However, as one Geelong man recently discovered, this convenience can sometimes come at a cost – and not just the financial kind.

Edward Atkin, a local resident, was left $100 out of pocket when an Uber delivery driver made a decision that can only be described as careless, if not downright lazy. The driver, tasked with delivering a full load of groceries from Woolworths, opted to leave the bags 'six metres' from Atkin's home, unattended on the sidewalk near the road. Within a mere 15 minutes, the groceries, worth approximately $105, had been stolen.


This incident wasn't Atkin's first rodeo with unsatisfactory delivery experiences, but it was the first time his order had been pilfered as a direct result. Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, Atkin recounted how he was notified at 7.20pm that his groceries had been delivered. By the time he arrived home at 7.35pm, they were nowhere to be found. After a fruitless 20-minute search and a conversation with his roommate, Atkin checked the delivery app and was confronted with a photo of his groceries abandoned on the footpath.


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A man had $100 worth of groceries stolen after an Uber delivery driver left them on the footpath near his home. Credit: Facebook


Understandably frustrated, Atkin voiced his concerns, stating that it's not acceptable for Australians to have to 'search' for their deliveries, especially when a clear drop-off point has been established. He called on Uber and its delivery partners to implement better systems to prevent such issues, particularly during a cost of living crisis when every penny counts.


The response from both Uber and Woolworths was swift. Uber initiated an internal investigation to understand the mishap and to prevent future occurrences. Woolworths, on the other hand, offered an apology to Atkin and replaced the missing groceries free of charge, demonstrating a commitment to customer service.

This story serves as a cautionary tale for all of us who rely on delivery services. While the convenience is undeniable, there is a risk involved when we are not there to receive our orders in person. It's essential to ensure that delivery instructions are clear and that the chosen delivery service is reputable and reliable.

For those of us who are less mobile or prefer the ease of home delivery, it's worth considering the following tips to safeguard against similar disappointments:


1. Provide detailed delivery instructions, including where to safely leave your groceries if you're not home.
2. Choose delivery times when you or someone else will be available to receive the order.
3. Consider using delivery services that offer real-time tracking and direct communication with the driver.
4. Check the reputation and reviews of the delivery service before placing your order.

Key Takeaways
  • An Australian man had $100 worth of groceries stolen after an Uber delivery driver left them on the footpath near his home.
  • The Geelong man, Edward Atkin, expressed frustration over the recurrence of groceries being left in unsuitable locations by delivery drivers.
  • Despite reporting the theft, Woolworths replaced the missing groceries free of charge, showing good customer service.
  • Uber stated they would conduct an internal investigation to prevent such incidents, while Woolworths emphasised their 'Delivery Now' service and partnership with on-demand delivery drivers for contactless delivery.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of reliable and respectful service. We encourage our members to share their experiences, good or bad, with grocery delivery services. Have you ever encountered a problem like Edward Atkin's? How did the company handle it? Share your stories in the comments below, and let's help each other navigate the world of online grocery shopping with confidence and caution.
 

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My Neighbour was away for a few days, Her Light and Easy box arrived one day she was away. Next day about 5 bags of woolie order there. She didn't get home to dark, I think. I'm sure it wasn't hers as she has light and easy and woolie stuff would have been more food (no dog food). Next day saw all in the bin (peeking out that, how much was deliver- small bin). The numbering system in the Court is shocking. I had food delivery several time and one time unable to open the door as there was heavy console (to made up) box. Lots of people wanting other people and deliveries. I have the word "House 4" on the front door. They are too lazy to read. There is 4 different Unit 4 here., plus my "4".
 
  • Wow
Reactions: Iggydi and marni
I reckon it is because those paper things are not worth a cracker.
Let's just say, rain, rain, go away.
Also every bag they use adds 25c to your bill. When I used to get home delivery they always brought the groceries right to my door and rang the bell. Coles and Woolworths both did it.
 
  • Wow
  • Like
Reactions: Iggydi and MariaG
footpath delivery? really? hope it was sacked. Wasn't even delivered to the actual property. NO excuse.
We have had food deliveries left outside our gate Once we had food left in next doors driveway We have no problems with Australia post but some other carriers leave a lot to be desired at times
 
  • Wow
Reactions: Iggydi
Never had any major issue with food delivery in the past decade. I have always gone by 3 of the 4 tips in the article to mitigate risks.

I can imagine some addresses would create challenges for delivery people.

Biggest problem for me has only ever been the odd missing item. Simple process to report online and the credit is sitting there to come off the cost of the next order.

I always get a few minutes of advance notice of delivery and put a large fishing trolley/cart at the start of the low deck. Always great chatting to drivers from all different countries as they load the trolley. I always get smiles as I encourage all to drive right into the driveway. Half a dozen steps to the waiting trolley.

The different countries reps seem to come in waves, from Indians to Pacific Islanders to Africans with a few randoms chucked in.

If I remember, I try to greet in their own language. Makes for some funny responses at times as I stuff it up.

So no real risk for me. I also use PayPal as the gatekeeper when paying, so my card details are not available to the shop.
 
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Reactions: Iggydi
We have had food deliveries left outside our gate Once we had food left in next doors driveway We have no problems with Australia post but some other carriers leave a lot to be desired at times
it's not right is it? I had a carrier deliver and sign and I said I'm sure already have everything I have ordered. Got inside and noticed it was a different number and name that could not have been missed. He then took off on foot to deliver it and he didn't know which way to go, so I pointed. really- the numbers on places were very visible.
 
  • Wow
Reactions: Iggydi
The Uber driver should be made to and also no longer hire by the company.
Maybe the Uber driver reloaded them back into his car after the photo was taken...
No Intelligent person would leave the groceries on the foot path....
 
  • Like
Reactions: Iggydi
Why didn't the driver knock on the door & who in their right mind leave a delivery on the bloody footpath. I mean seriously 😐
I'm glad Woolworths had a heart & replaced the shopping 🛍
 
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Reactions: Iggydi

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