Grab Buys Uber in Southeast Asia: Advantages and Disadvantages for Commuters

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640px-Grab_(application)_logo.svgOfficial business of Uber stopped on April 9, 2018, as their company was bought by their all-time rival Grab. It has become such devastation to most commuters that have primarily preferred Uber or switch between the two companies from time to time.

This article will tackle the advantages and disadvantages we will have to face with Grab absorbing Uber into their company.

Disadvantages

Drivers

Uber drivers are largely more customer-oriented than the latter. Grabs are sometimes very choosy with their passengers, and it’s just so hard to get a ride sometimes. I am not speaking for the totality of these drivers, but the majority. I know there are some very wholesome Grab drivers out there. But ever realized why there are more issues about Grab drivers than Uber drivers?

Price

It’s no secret that there is a huge price difference when it comes to Uber and Grab. Many times, people check both the apps before actually booking a trip and almost always Uber has cheaper fares. Price differences could vary by a small amount or sometimes could go double! But now, with Grab monopolizing the market, it’s going to be easier for them to manipulate the price.

Adjusting

Some people, such as myself, only use Uber but now I am obliged to install Grab since it is my only means of transportation. I’ll have to get used to it since I’ve never really committed to it before. It’s also such a waste to let go of all of the stars you’ve worked so hard to get and the reputation you have as a good customer on Uber. But these are just the little things.

Advantages

Control

There’s also an advantage to Grab having full control of the market. They will have a more extensive database and more drivers in one app. Grab actually only took over the best drivers from Uber and undoubtedly filtered theirs as well. Since there were too much to handle all at once. Also, rather than having to book with two apps and hope for the best whoever pings you back first. Speaking digitally, everything will be much more convenient having the two companies collide. No more comparing and a more significant chance of getting a booking.

Of course, all of these are solely based on my country, how do these two companies work in yours? Does this merger affect you? I’d love to hear what you think about this surprising change down in the comments below.

Photo credit: Feature image is a photo taken at Grab’s fifth year anniversary by Grab
Source: Grab press release

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Ela Denise Buendia
Ela Denise Buendia
Hey, thanks for taking a look at my article! I'm Ela, a very passionate creative writer and full-time home gamer. I'm also Filipino so hopefully you already know someone like me since we are everywhere lol. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration Major in Marketing Management, which I hopefully will be able to use in the future. Make sure to check out my other articles and don't hesitate to drop by our Discord and say hi!
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