Go-Jek launches ride-sharing app in Singapore to challenge Grab's dominance
Indonesia-based ride-sharing company Go-Jek made its official entry into Singapore on Thursday with the launch of the beta version of its app.
The launch also marked the start of Go-Jek’s partnership with DBS bank, which will see DBS customers in Singapore prioritised.
Go-Jek had told The Drum in 2017 that it had no plans for overseas expansion. However, that changed when Uber exited the South East Asian market in early 2018 after selling its business to Singapore-based Grab.
That left Grab as the only dominant player in the market and even as it enjoyed its new-found freedom, consumers became disgruntled with its service over time.
Now, consumers will have more options to choose from, as the launch of the beta version of Go-Jek’s app marks the start of a gradual roll-out of its ride-hailing services across the island, as more driver-partners are onboarded over time to feed consumers’ demand.
According to Go-Jek, this staggered approach will ensure a smooth entry into Singapore and an ongoing effort to improve the user experience over time.
“It is with great pride that we begin the roll-out of our services in Singapore. Consumers throughout the country have told us that they want more choice in this sector and with the launch of our beta app, their wait is coming to an end,” said Andre Soelistyo, the president of Go-Jek.
“We are launching in beta for now, while we fine-tune our service to make sure it meets the high standards expected by Singaporeans. As such, we are asking all users, whether drivers or passengers, to provide us with ongoing feedback as we work towards creating the best possible service for the country.”
The launch also marked the start of Go-Jek’s partnership with DBS bank, which will see DBS customers in Singapore prioritised on the waitlist as access to the app will be granted in batches to balance ride demand and service capabilities.