Innovative zero-commission app Ownly expands across Bengaluru to help restaurants
Bengaluru is witnessing a major shift in the food tech landscape as Rapido officially introduces its dedicated delivery platform, Ownly. Following a successful testing phase in neighborhoods like HSR Layout and Koramangala, the service is now available across the entire city. This move marks a direct challenge to established players by offering a business model that eliminates traditional commissions for restaurant partners.
Most existing food delivery giants rely on high commission rates from eateries to sustain their operations. Ownly deviates from this path by positioning itself as a "restaurant-first" marketplace. Instead of taking a cut from every meal sold, the platform focuses on a transparent structure where customers pay strictly for the food and the logistical cost of getting it to their door. This approach aims to eliminate inflated menu prices and hidden platform charges that often frustrate diners.
One of the strategic advantages for this new venture is its connection to Rapido’s massive fleet of "Captains." By utilizing the existing bike taxi and hyperlocal delivery infrastructure, the company can manage food fulfillment without the massive overhead of building a network from scratch. This efficiency is central to their "everyday low price" strategy, which prioritizes long-term value over short-term, unsustainable discounts.
Founder Aravind Sanka emphasizes that the goal is to bring honesty back to the sector. With nearly 20,000 restaurants already onboard, the platform seeks to support both small local vendors and large chains. By removing the financial burden of commissions, Ownly allows businesses to focus on quality while providing consumers with a more affordable way to enjoy their favorite meals.
While the $8 billion Indian food delivery market is currently dominated by two major firms, Rapido’s entry suggests there is still room for innovation in unit economics. The success of this citywide rollout in Bengaluru will serve as a crucial test case for whether a zero-commission model can truly scale and remain profitable in a highly competitive environment.
