More eateries offering perks for e-scooter riders

Some businesses are taking note as electric scooters (e-scooters) become more common here.

At least 16 eateries are now offering e-scooter riders discounts and services such as charging points.

Mr Paul Sim, who has been riding an e-scooter for about three years, compiled an "e-scooter-friendly" map on Google Maps last month.

In just under a week, the map had more than 5,000 views.

Besides eateries, the map also includes park connectors and shops that sell e-scooters and provide repair services.

Mr Sim, 39, a marketer, said the map is his way of giving back to the e-scooter community and supporting local businesses.

"Some members like to go for long scoots, so it is always nice to know that you have a friendly place for any contingency."

Most of the eateries on the map were told to Mr Sim by the members of e-scooter interest group Big Wheel Scooters Singapore, which has nearly 13,000 members on Facebook.

In addition, Mr Sim managed to persuade three more eateries to offer such services.

BUSINESS SENSE

He targeted establishments that are not accessible by public transport, and hopes to get more restaurants on board by pointing out that it makes good business sense to tap on the growing e-scooter community.

Southwest Tavern in Boon Lay started offering free charging points a month ago after some persuasion from Mr Sim.

Mr Andrew Koh, 45, who owns the Western food restaurant, said the response has been positive so far, and they have seen groups of e-scooter riders on weekday nights.

"I agreed to it because there are not many places in the west that support the community.

"Hopefully, this gesture of goodwill will also result in better business," he said.

Another eatery, Gills N Shells, at Jalan Sultan, offers a 10 per cent discount on a la carte items to e-scooter riders, on top of free charging services.

Its floor supervisor, Mr Daneson Gun, 32, said there has been an improvement in its business since it started the promotions about three months ago.

"Our boss does not mind, and most people do not charge (their batteries) for that long anyway. Besides, our four chefs are e-scooter riders."

 

This article was first published on Dec 6, 2016.
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