In a quirky incident that has sparked an online debate, a Delhi woman’s post about her boyfriend waiting 42 minutes to avoid a surge charge of Rs 80 on a Zepto order has amused social media users. The woman’s boyfriend, who reportedly earns Rs 42 lakh annually, chose to wait for the delivery service’s surge pricing to drop, sparking reactions on X (formerly Twitter).
Anu Srivastava, a writer and artist, took to X to share the moment, stating that she supported his decision and found it financially smart. “He’s a master at being rich and staying that way,” Srivastava commented, praising her boyfriend’s frugality. Several other X users echoed similar sentiments, praising the move as a practical approach to managing personal finances, even for high earners.
My boyfriend with 42 LPA package waited 42 minutes for Zepto to remove the ₹80/- surge charge 🤷♀️
— Anu (@Escapeplace__) October 15, 2024
One X user, Ratan Ranjan, commented, “It’s hard-earned money.” Another user, Amit Misra, humorously wrote, “Financial planning level: CEO salary, college student spending.”
Srivastava’s post also inspired many to share their own money-saving strategies for delivery apps. One user, Aaraynsh, shared an unconventional method of saving during surge pricing by ordering food and requesting additional items like milk from the delivery person, thereby avoiding separate charges.
While the incident drew light-hearted responses, it also fueled discussions around financial habits and spending choices, with users applauding the practice of saving even small amounts.
Meanwhile, Zepto, the delivery service at the center of this incident, found itself embroiled in controversy after sending an inappropriate marketing notification. The message, which read, “I miss you, Pallavi, says I-pill Emergency Contraceptive pill,” was sent to Pallavi Pareek, a legal expert in workplace diversity.
Pareek took to LinkedIn to express her outrage, stating, “I have never ordered an emergency pill from you… This is not something that should be missing me or I should be missing it.” The notification, which appeared to trivialize a serious health matter, was met with widespread criticism online, with users calling out the company’s insensitivity.
Zepto eventually apologized for the inappropriate message after receiving backlash on social media.
The incident served as a reminder to brands of the need for sensitivity in their marketing strategies. While light-hearted or humorous messages can work in certain contexts, they should not cross into inappropriate or insensitive territory. Social media users voiced their concerns about the message, emphasizing the need for brands to maintain professionalism and avoid controversial tactics.
The combination of these two events—an amusing personal finance story and a brand blunder—demonstrates how quickly social media can amplify both light-hearted debates and serious issues alike.
