Ge Long Hui·2025-10-31 10:45Core Viewpoint - Meituan has established a comprehensive social security system for its delivery riders, marking a significant shift in the gig economy towards enhanced worker protections rather than mere subsidies [1][4][10]. Group 1: Overview of the New Social Security System - The new social security system covers millions of flexible workers, providing a structured safety net for all riders [2][3]. - This initiative signifies the end of the "no protection era" for delivery riders, with Meituan setting a precedent that may compel other companies to follow suit [5][6]. - The system is designed with a "multi-layered tower structure" to address the full lifecycle needs of riders, transitioning from basic survival support to development assistance [6][7]. Group 2: Structure and Benefits of the System - The foundational layer includes nationwide coverage for all Meituan riders, offering pension insurance, occupational injury insurance, and accident insurance, with no restrictions on qualifications or location [6][7]. - The advanced layer innovatively includes coverage for riders' families, providing benefits such as serious illness care, education funds for children, and vocational training, thus expanding the traditional boundaries of corporate welfare [6][7]. - The welfare layer offers additional benefits like meal subsidies, family travel allowances, free annual health check-ups, and services to enhance riders' job satisfaction [7]. Group 3: Implementation and Historical Context - Meituan's social security system is the result of long-term investment and gradual implementation, starting with pilot programs in 2021 and achieving nationwide coverage by October 2023 [8][10]. - The company has engaged in extensive dialogue with riders, holding nearly 500 meetings to gather feedback and optimize the program [8]. Group 4: Broader Implications for the Industry - Meituan's initiative represents a significant innovation in social security for gig workers, potentially serving as a replicable model for other sectors [12][18]. - The system addresses the unique characteristics of China's flexible workforce, which includes approximately 240 million gig workers, many of whom experience high mobility and income volatility [14]. - Other delivery platforms are beginning to adopt similar measures, indicating Meituan's influence on industry standards [18]. Group 5: Strategic and Economic Considerations - The establishment of this social security system aligns with national policies aimed at optimizing and sustaining social security frameworks [15][22]. - By institutionalizing worker protections, Meituan enhances its governance and reduces future policy and reputational risks, which could lead to long-term operational stability [21]. - The initiative is expected to improve business efficiency by reducing rider turnover and enhancing service quality, ultimately solidifying Meituan's competitive advantage in the market [22][23]. Group 6: Conclusion - As competition shifts from subsidies to institutional governance, Meituan is redefining the business logic of the platform economy, emphasizing long-term sustainability over short-term incentives [25][26].