Meghana Foods issues 'sincere apology' after poster telling Swiggy, Zomato riders to use stairs sparks outcry

Facing mounting criticism, Meghana Foods issued a public apology.

Meghana Foods, one of Bengaluru’s most recognisable restaurant chains, came under sharp scrutiny this week after a sign at one of its outlets instructed food-delivery workers to avoid using the lift and take the stairs instead. A photograph of the notice — which stated that Swiggy and Zomato delivery personnel were “not allowed in lift” and must “please use stairs” — circulated widely across X, Reddit and Instagram, leading to a wave of public criticism and allegations of discriminatory conduct.

The image prompted an extensive discussion online, with many users arguing that the message reflected a prejudiced attitude towards delivery workers. One commenter wrote, “How cheap the thinking is.” Another social-media user alleged that the chain’s decision was financially motivated, saying, “Meghana Foods is trying to save on electricity bills. And trying to lose respect. No respect for humanity.” That sentiment was repeated by several others who said the instruction was both inconsiderate and unnecessary.

Others questioned the broader attitude underlying the sign. One user remarked, “Imagine banning the people who keep your business running. Clown behaviour.” Another comment read, “It’s not about priority or convenience or floors. This is about them trying to enforce classism.” Several users described the incident as reflective of a long-standing tendency to treat certain professions differently, with one saying, “Age-old habit of treating people differently based on their occupation.”

The note also raised concerns about the working conditions of delivery personnel, many of whom spend hours navigating traffic and climbing multiple flights of stairs daily. A user argued that if the outlet did not wish to accommodate delivery workers inside the building, an alternative should be provided: “This is unacceptable. Either have a takeaway counter outside so that they can properly pick up the food, or give them access to the lift.”

Facing mounting criticism, Meghana Foods issued a public apology. In a statement posted on social media, the chain acknowledged that the poster had been inappropriate and said it had been removed. The statement read: “A recent poster at one of our Meghana Foods outlet telling delivery partners to use the stairs has been brought to our attention. While the intention was to offer our customers convenience from crowded elevators, we were inconsiderate to our delivery partners. That was wrong. It should never have been put up.”

The restaurant added that delivery workers played a crucial role in its operations and deserved to be treated with dignity. It further said the issue had been addressed internally and extended a “sincere apology” to delivery partners. “You are the core of the Meghana Foods experience,” the statement said, expressing hope that those affected would accept the apology.