Celeste Launches Sri Lanka’s First-Ever Rider Refresh Point in Partnership with UberEats

Redefining care for delivery heroes with a dedicated facility for rest and recharge

01st December, Colombo, Sri Lanka – Celeste, Sri Lanka’s largest and fastest-growing online supermarket, has launched the nation’s first fully equipped Rider Refresh Point in partnership with UberEats. Located on Iswari Road, Colombo 06, this facility is dedicated to supporting the well-being of delivery riders, offering a safe, clean space to rest, refresh, and recharge during their shifts.

The Rider Refresh Point is a complimentary service open to all delivery partners, complete with male and female toilets, shower facilities, and private areas for changing and sanitation, including a dedicated space designed for female riders to manage menstrual hygiene with dignity. By addressing a vital yet often overlooked need, Celeste aims to foster inclusivity and normalize conversations around menstrual health in the gig economy. Additionally, the facility includes a hot and cold water dispenser, providing essential amenities that reflect Celeste’s commitment to the well-being of its delivery partners.

The facility’s cleanliness and maintenance are ensured through a partnership with Quick Help, facilitating daily cleaning at no additional cost along with essential supplies such as garbage bags, soap, and shampoo. This collaboration underscores Celeste’s dedication to creating a welcoming and hygienic environment for riders.

“This Rider Refresh Point is a milestone in our journey towards making daily operations smoother and healthier for delivery riders,” commented Janik Jayasuriya, Founder/CEO of Celeste. “We are proud to take this step alongside UberEats, who share our dedication to enhancing the everyday lives of the heroes who work tirelessly to meet customer needs. Celeste believes in supporting all members of our community, and this initiative is just one of the many ways we’re investing in the welfare of our delivery partners.”

The facility sets a new benchmark in rider support infrastructure, reinforcing Celeste’s leadership in Sri Lanka’s on-demand delivery sector. The initiative addresses the challenging working conditions faced by delivery partners, providing a comfortable space that caters to their unique needs and prioritizes their well-being. Academic literature underscores the importance of such support for delivery riders, emphasizing that safe, hygienic facilities can lead to increased job satisfaction and efficiency, both of which benefit the broader food and grocery delivery ecosystem.

As Sri Lanka’s pioneering Rider Refresh Point, this facility aligns with broader global trends where companies are increasingly focusing on enhancing working conditions for gig economy workers. For UberEats, which has partnered with Celeste on this initiative, the Rider Refresh Point is a meaningful step toward fostering a supportive environment for its delivery network.

“We are thrilled to partner with Celeste on this initiative to support our delivery partners,” commented Varun Wijewardene, General Manager of Uber Sri Lanka. “Delivery riders play a vital role in ensuring seamless service for customers across the island, and UberEats is proud to be part of this initiative that provides them with a safe and accessible place to rest. Together with Celeste, we aim to set a standard that elevates the experience for all our partners and enhances the sustainability of our delivery ecosystem.”

In addition to the amenities offered, the Rider Refresh Point represents a larger mission shared by both companies to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for the delivery workforce. Celeste and UberEats envision this as the first of several initiatives designed to create a positive impact on the community, especially those on the frontline of food and grocery delivery services.