What economic recovery? China’s delivery drivers just along for the ride as other opportunities remain elusive

Despite China’s economy seeing considerable growth in the third quarter, a large segment of its working class is still feeling effects of the pandemic. A total of 24.7% of industry-leading Meituan’s 2.95 million delivery riders had at least a bachelor’s degree at the end of July, up from 18% a year earlier. — SCMP

When the temperature dropped sharply and heavy smog returned to Beijing on the last night of the recent “golden week” holiday, most downtown restaurants and stores closed early. But Chai Fengning was still riding through the streets on a black electric bike, standing out in his bright yellow uniform and helmet identifying him as an employee of Meituan – the largest on-demand delivery service in China.

The 23-year-old became a full-time food-delivery driver last month after the coronavirus pandemic upended the hospitality industry and cost him his job as a hotel receptionist.