Co-founder and CEO of the Night Market App, Harold Benji, has reaffirmed his commitment to growing alongside students and local food vendors, despite the potential impact the recent 70% delivery fee reduction may have on the app’s earnings.
His comments come after the significant reduction in delivery fees was secured through several rounds of engagement and negotiation with the University of Ghana Students’ Representative Council (UGSRC), in response to growing dissatisfaction among students over the rising cost of food delivery on campus.
Speaking on Talking Business on Radio Univers, Mr. Benji emphasised that the decision to reduce delivery fees was not purely driven by business considerations, but by a deeper sense of purpose and commitment to building a lasting relationship with students and local vendors.
“Yes, it will affect our margins, but if students order more, the volume will balance it out. Our focus is not to compete with others like Bolt Food. Our focus is on students. When they are satisfied, we win.”
He noted that the company’s mission has never been centred on profit, but on making meals more accessible for students.
“The genesis of the app is to make food accessible and affordable, not for profitability. We have lived around students for a long time, and one of their biggest struggles is food, how to get it, and how to afford it, and so for us, this reduction is not just a business decision, it is a fulfilling purpose.”
Mr. Benji further explained that the Night Market App was designed with student life in mind, partnering with campus vendors who allow flexibility and affordability, unlike fixed-price fast-food outlets.
“When you go to places like Night Market or Bush Canteen, students can customise meals or negotiate based on their budget, which is something you do not get at places like KFC or Papaye. We then wanted to digitise that exact experience, to make ordering easier while keeping that student-centred approach.”
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Story by: JisLord Naaa Ablorh|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by: Michelle Lartey
