New Delhi: If there is something that a shopping spree can hurt more than your bank balance, it’s your arm. But now you can hand over the bags to a shopping assistant in exchange for a fee, thanks to a Delhi startup. The new service has divided people on the internet. While some say it solves an overlooked problem, others call it “modern slavery”.
The startup, CarryMen, promises to offer a “stress-free shopping experience” with its shopping assistants. As you navigate your way through the ever-crowded Lajpat Nagar Central Market, an assistant will follow you carrying your bags and also accompany you till the metro station or parking area.
The service, currently available only at Lajpat Nagar market, is offered through booths where you can hire assistants starting at Rs 79 for a 30-minute package. The charges can go up to Rs 400, depending upon the duration for which the service is required.
Besides carrying bags, assistants will also stand in queues to get you a plate of chole bhature, momos or rajma chawal as you continue to shop. However, they won’t hold your child, although customers can rent baby prams and carriers as add-ons.
The assistant also comes to your rescue if your phone has discharged, you need an N95 mask, or when you left your umbrella at home. Customers can also catch their breath during long shopping sessions by paying for a foldable chair at the CarryMen booth.
As per the company’s website, the assistants undergo identity checks and are trained to “behave professionally, respectfully, and responsibly while serving customers”.
The startup claims that assistants can earn up to Rs 18,000 per month by carrying shopping bags.
‘Convenience’ or ‘slavery’?
The new service has intrigued many on the internet. But it has also raised ethical concerns, with some calling it “exploitation” and others questioning if the assistants are paid fairly.
“Swiggy delivers food, Zomato delivers food. CarryMen delivers your poor life choices from Sarojini Market,” a person wrote on X.
Another said, “Call it unemployment or the Start-up where today’s youth are forced to become coolies”.
“Love how startups constantly innovate in the slavery space,” a comment read.
“Money and convenience make a person lazy, meaning people need others to carry their bags after shopping,” a user said on X.