The Instant Delivery and the Effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic on On-Demand App Consume
Instant delivery. On-demand delivery. E-commerce. Urban freight transport. Pandemic. Structural Equation Modeling.
This dissertation analyzes the socioeconomic profile and the main motivations of consumers of instant deliveries, with a focus on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. To this end, the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS - SEM) was applied, using SmartPLS 4 software. Based on the theoretical framework, the model with formative measurement was created for an exploratory analysis of the research. The collinearity analysis showed VIF values of less than 5, indicating that there was no multicollinearity in the calculation of the variables. The results showed that socio-economic profile and perception of the benefits of this type of purchase had positive influences on consumption of on- demand fast delivery apps both before and during the pandemic. In addition, the price of the product had a positive influence before and during the pandemic, while gender and frequency of purchase had a positive influence on the consumer profile during the pandemic. Practicality had a positive influence before and during the pandemic in terms of the perceived benefits of app purchases, while convenience only had a positive influence during the pandemic. Directly related to consumption of fast delivery apps, speed of delivery, diversity of products, diversity of establishments and delivery rate had an influence in both study periods. During the pandemic, social isolation had a positive effect on consumption by instant deliveries, demonstrating more directly that there was an impact on consumption of this type of service because of the pandemic. Finally, the study highlights the need to develop public policies that affect urban freight transport in order to offer a sustainable freight mobility service, considering environmental, economic, social and technological issues.