7 June 2021
Hon. Ernie Steeves
Minister of Finance, Government of New Brunswick
Chancery Place
P. O. Box 6000
Fredericton, NB
E3B 5H1
Via email: ernie.steeves@gnb.ca
Re: Capping Restaurant Delivery App Fees
Dear Minister Steeves:
I am writing today on behalf of our member restaurants and food-service providers to follow-up on my letter of 10 February 2021 that requested the New Brunswick government limit the percentage fee that third-party delivery apps can charge in the province.
As you are aware, restaurants have been amongst the hardest hit businesses throughout the pandemic – here in New Brunswick and across the world. Governments have reacted in various ways to support business and economies – through both direct financial aid as well as policy decisions and regulatory adjustments.
Last week, the Nova Scotia government announced a 15 % cap on fees restaurants and bars pay for third-party deliveries and a 10 % cap if a customer uses a food delivery app to order. Our members tell us they pay up to a 30% commission to have orders delivered through these services, while the governments of Ontario and British Columbia have implemented a cap of 15% on delivery fees and 20% on all associated fees.
While New Brunswick is doing well vaccinating our population and we are collectively working towards the “Green” phase – the financial and economic effects of the pandemic will still be felt by businesses long after the health effects have subsided.
We are therefore renewing our request that the Government of New Brunswick follow suit and cap delivery fees for third-party delivery apps as a means to provide much-needed assistance to our local restaurants without effecting the provincial coffers.
Sincerely,
Krista Ross, CEO
Fredericton Chamber of Commerce
cc: Hon. Ted Flemming, Minister of Justice and Public Safety
cc: Hon. Arlene Dunn, Minister Responsible, Economic Development and Small Business; Opportunities New Brunswick
cc: Luc Erjavec, VP Atlantic, Restaurants Canada
cc: Carol Alderdice, President and CEO, Tourism Industry Association of New Brunswick
