Core Points - JD.com has joined Meituan and Ele.me in adjusting the penalty rules for delivery riders, implementing a "service score" management system instead of cash penalties for late deliveries [1] - The shift from cash penalties to service scores aims to enhance rider experience and will be evaluated for nationwide implementation based on pilot results [1] - The previous penalty system, which deducted 2-5 yuan per order for late deliveries, accounted for 15%-20% of riders' average income, leading to risky behaviors among riders [1] Group 1: Industry Changes - Ele.me announced on October 14 that it would pilot a new service score system in cities like Nantong and Changzhou, replacing the previous late delivery cash penalties [2] - Meituan plans to eliminate late delivery penalties by the end of 2025 and has publicly shared its delivery algorithm logic as part of its commitment to rider welfare [2] - The trend of reducing burdens on delivery riders has become a significant focus for various platforms this year, with JD.com also introducing additional measures such as extra subsidies during adverse weather conditions [2] Group 2: Rider Welfare Initiatives - JD.com has signed formal labor contracts with over 10,000 full-time riders, ensuring the payment of social insurance and housing funds, with the company covering all costs to maintain riders' cash income [2] - Meituan has initiated trials for features allowing riders to block users, enhancing rider autonomy and safety [3] - Ele.me is expanding its occupational injury insurance coverage for riders, with plans to increase subsidies for stable riders [3] Group 3: Industry Growth - The number of delivery riders in China is projected to exceed 10 million by the end of 2024, with Meituan's riders growing at an annual rate of nearly 20% to reach 7.45 million and Ele.me having over 4 million active riders [3] - JD.com's full-time delivery riders have surpassed 150,000 this year [3]