Uber encourages harassment by sending carolers to neighbors' doors
- Starting December 7, Uber will offer a service where customers can order carolers in select U.S. cities.
- Customers must purchase a drink from Diageo to be eligible for the caroler service, which costs a flat fee of $60.
- The initiative potentially allows for disruptive holiday fun, but Uber has policies in place regarding intoxication and service.
In the United States, Uber is launching a new service starting December 7, 2024, which allows customers in New York City, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, and Washington, D.C. to order a troupe of carolers to their doorstep. This initiative coincides with the festive season, giving residents a chance to make their holiday celebrations more dynamic or perhaps more disruptive. To access this service, customers need to place an order for a drink from the U.K.-based beverage company Diageo, which partners with Uber for this promotion. This could include selecting from options like Bulleit whiskey, Don Julio tequila, or even non-alcoholic alternatives such as Ritual whiskey. The flat rate for the carolers is set at $60, but the requirement of ordering a beverage means that the total cost may vary based on selections. The service is designed to cater to those who might want to surprise family and friends or even send a festive ambush to unsuspecting neighbors. However, Uber has made clear its policies regarding the consumption of alcohol, stating that if customers are intoxicated, they may refuse service by returning the drinks and taking away the carolers. As part of its holiday branding efforts, Uber has introduced a gingerbread icon in its Eats app, showcasing a curated selection of holiday-related items that can be delivered. This new venture not only reflects Uber's aim to expand its delivery offerings but also encourages interaction and a certain level of community engagement during the holiday season, albeit with potential for sending festive noise into unsuspecting households.