Bolt released a statement to ‘set the record straight on pricing and waiting time.’
‘Whilst higher prices due to higher customer demand during tourist peak season are common, over the past week, average ride prices were approximately 10% higher compared to the same period in 2023’, the statement explained.
This was attributed to a 19% decrease in the number of available drivers on the platform, with this being ‘linked to the rejection of temporary work permits of hundreds of drivers.’
‘This is further compounded by an endemic 7.9% turnover of personnel on average a month within the transport industry’, as outlined by Central Bank of Malta statistics.
‘Conversely, demand for rides has increased by 23%, which is higher than what we have historically seen at this time of year.’
The statement addressed ‘concerning allegations that bolt intervened to increase waiting times and pricing mechanisms as some sort of retaliation.’
Bolt uses automated surge pricing like other platforms in the industry, which match customer demands with driver supply.
‘In 2024, Bolt ended collaboration with 28 fleets which did not meet Bolt’s standard of engagement. Bolt will continue to terminate its agreements with any fleet or individual operators if they are found to be in breach of applicable law or are involved in any kind if malpractice in breach of their contract.’
‘We also understand Malta’s challenges and the strategy outlined by the Maltese government in the National Employment Policy 2021-2030’, the statement ended.
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