Introduction to the Partnership
DoorDash’s new partnership has people on social media doing a double take. On March 20, the food delivery platform announced a collab with Klarna, an AI-powered online payments company, to offer a range of flexible payment options to its customers. DoorDash says that customers will soon be able to use Klarna’s range of payment options when purchasing groceries, restaurant food and retail items.
How the Partnership Works
When customers check out, they’ll be able to choose Klarna as a payment option, with three options that include: paying in full using Klarna; “Pay in 4,” where customers will pay for their purchase in four equal interest-free installments; and “Pay Later,” which will let users defer payments to another time.
Reaction on Social Media
News of the partnership hit social media like a poké bowl forcefully chucked at a wall. While a lot of the comments joke about DoorDash’s partnership with Trixie Mattel’s favorite Swedish company, others raise concerns about what finance plans for food means for customers — and society at large. In response, Klarna posted more context in a blog post titled “Convenience Shouldn’t Cost,” clarifying what customers can and can’t do with its service.
Clarification from Klarna
“This partnership gives DoorDash customers an easier way to pay upfront, with Klarna Pay in full, and spread the cost of larger purchases over $35 with Klarna’s interest-free, installment-based credit options — especially important as DoorDash expands its offering into electronics, big-box retail and gifts,” a Klarna spokesperson tells TODAY.com. To reiterate: That $35 minimum means you cannot use this tool to finance a single burrito to your home.
Concerns and Implications
But this partnership has made a lot of finance-focused folks wonder about its implications out loud. On March 20, influencer and entrepreneur Humphrey Yang devoted a video to the subject, captioning his clip, “Are we cooked chat?” “What is going on with the world? You’re telling me you’re gonna put your pizza on buy now, pay later?” Yang says. “I’m not sure what to think about this. Is our economy doing that bad where we need interest-free installments on food? I mean, that actually presents a very slippery slope. Like, what’s next? Laundry machines? Vending machines?”
Conclusion
The partnership between DoorDash and Klarna has sparked a lot of debate and discussion on social media. While some people see it as a convenient option for customers, others are concerned about the implications of financing food and other purchases. As the partnership rolls out, it will be interesting to see how customers respond and whether other companies follow suit.
FAQs
Q: What is the partnership between DoorDash and Klarna?
A: The partnership allows customers to use Klarna’s payment options when purchasing groceries, restaurant food, and retail items on DoorDash.
Q: What are the payment options available through Klarna?
A: Customers can pay in full using Klarna, pay in four equal interest-free installments, or defer payments to another time.
Q: Is there a minimum purchase amount required to use Klarna’s payment options?
A: Yes, the minimum purchase amount is $35.
Q: Can I use Klarna to finance a single food item, such as a burrito?
A: No, the $35 minimum purchase amount applies, so you cannot use Klarna to finance a single burrito.
Q: What are the implications of this partnership for customers and society?
A: Some people are concerned that the partnership could lead to a slippery slope where people are financing everyday purchases, rather than saving up for them. Others see it as a convenient option for customers who need flexibility in their payment options.
