A new food delivery platform has launched in Cumbria by a local entrepreneur as he sets his sights on shaking up the sector.
Gourmet2Go was started by George Thwaytes from Penrith with several Cumbrian businesses already onboard.
The app is marketed as an exclusive food delivery platform, connecting customers to restaurants, gastro pubs and food boxes.
Gourmet2Go say all establishments on the app have been through “strict vetting” to ensure quality and fair service for customers.
Onboard so far are Penrith-based Alex Serves Sushi, the George & Dragon at Clifton and Milburn’s James Alexander Fine Foods.
The Cumbrian Sausage Company founder and Apprentice star Oliver Nohl-Oser, of Milburn, is excited for James Alexander Fine Foods to join the app.
“We are delighted to be supporting and working with a local, rural Cumbrian business that is dedicated to great food, just like us,” he said.
The app, available on iPhone and Android, is endorsed by The Restaurant Club. Customers simply download the app, browse the restaurants and food boxes, order and pay with everything else taken care of, and all contactless.
Gourmet2Go will charge 10 per cent commission on each order placed through the app.
George Thwaytes said: “We set up Gourmet2Go to give restaurants of high quality a chance to showcase their food an on app that only has high-quality food.
“For example, our market research showed there is amazing food on offer on other apps, but they are alongside other options which aren’t of the same calibre.
“We intend to fill a gap in the market for a well-curated app for customers, but also for an affordable price for those that sign up due to the current circumstances.
“We all know hospitality has been hit incredibly hard, yet all want them to still be there when this is over.”
In market research, Gourmet2Go found 92 per cent of diners are interested in quality-assured restaurants. For this reason, George and his team personally screen every single restaurant and chef.