Swiggy vs Zomato: how the contract terms compare
Swiggy and Zomato partner contracts are broadly similar: both charge segment-based commission (commonly 18–30% plus taxes), run optional paid-visibility ads, settle payouts on a weekly-to-fortnightly cycle, and auto-renew. Differences are in your specific negotiated rate, ad model and deduction terms — so compare your two actual agreements, not the public headlines.
How do Swiggy and Zomato commissions compare?
Both platforms charge commission as a percentage of order value — commonly 18–30% plus GST — set by segment (city, cuisine, order value) rather than a single public rate. Neither is categorically cheaper; the rate you are offered depends on your negotiation and volume.
Compare the all-in take rate on each: commission plus payment-gateway fees, packaging and any ad spend. Two restaurants on the same platform can pay very different effective rates.
How do ads and visibility charges differ?
Both run optional paid-visibility products that promote your listing for extra spend. These are billed on top of commission and are easy to let creep up. The mechanics and names differ, but on both platforms they are optional — you can list and take orders without them.
Treat ad spend as a separate marketing line with its own ROI, not a cost of being on the platform.
How do payouts and deductions compare?
Both settle on a roughly weekly-to-fortnightly cycle (commonly 7–15 days) and net off commission, fees, refunds and chargebacks before paying you. The detail that varies is who bears refund and delivery-failure liability, which is set in your specific contract.
Reconcile every payout statement against your orders on both platforms — silent deductions are the most common dispute.
What about exclusivity, pricing and exit?
India's Competition Commission (CCI) found in 2024–25 that both platforms had used exclusivity arrangements and price-parity pressure that disadvantaged restaurants. In practice, watch for any exclusivity or price-parity clause, and note that both contracts typically auto-renew unless you give written notice in a defined window (often ~30 days).
Diarise each contract's renewal and notice dates the day you sign, and treat exclusivity as a deliberate, compensated choice — not a default.
Frequently asked questions
Is Swiggy or Zomato cheaper for restaurants?
Neither is uniformly cheaper. Both set commission by segment and negotiation, so compare the all-in effective rate on your two actual contracts rather than headline numbers.
Can I be on both Swiggy and Zomato?
Yes, unless you have signed an exclusivity clause with one of them. Being on both preserves leverage and reach; exclusivity trades that away and should be a deliberate decision.
Did the CCI rule against Swiggy and Zomato?
Reports of the CCI's investigation indicate both platforms were found to have breached competition norms through exclusivity and pricing practices. Check current orders, as the matter has been subject to appeal.
Which platform pays out faster?
Both settle on a broadly similar weekly-to-fortnightly cycle. The exact days and the deductions netted off are set in your specific agreement — read the payment schedule on each.
What clause should I check first in either contract?
The all-in commission and fee schedule, followed by auto-renewal and its notice window. Those two determine profitability and whether you are locked in.
Can I negotiate with both platforms?
Often yes on volume, ad spend and some fees. Get any agreed rate in writing, and compare the revised effective rate across both before committing.
This guide is general information for Indian restaurants, not legal advice. Rules change and specifics vary by state and situation — confirm with a qualified professional. EatSafe Legal connects you to verified CAs and lawyers when you need one.
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