Couriers enjoy discounted meals at a restaurant in Beilun district, Ningbo, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

Restaurants in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, have joined a new initiative for delivery couriers to find a decent meal after the lunchtime rush.

On Dec 17, Taibai community in Daqi subdistrict, Beilun district, announced the designation of four eateries as "extended-hour restaurants", offering couriers discounted meals and additional services during their downtime.

These restaurants stay open an extra hour, from 1:00 pm. to 2:00 pm, providing couriers with perks such as free hot water, charging stations, and designated rest areas.

Outside one restaurant on Batou Road, a sign advertises a 32 percent discount during the extended hour.

"This is exactly when we get to eat," said Ouyang Huixiang, a 20-year-old courier from Jiangxi province who moved to Ningbo in the summer. "Before, I would grab whatever I could — a scallion pancake or something from a roadside stall."

For many couriers, afternoons provide a rare pause. "Unless there's an order, we'd usually just rest on our bikes or roam around," said Chen Kunpeng, another courier. "Now we have places where we can sit down, recharge, and get a hot meal."

Couriers enjoy discounted meals at a restaurant in Beilun district, Ningbo, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

The program reflects growing attention to the needs of gig economy workers, a group essential to urban life but often underserved. "With 16 distribution hubs and more than 300 couriers in this area, businesses have a role to play," said Li Kun, manager of one of the participating restaurants.

Taibai community's support extends beyond meals.

Couriers can also access discounted haircuts and free vehicle maintenance, part of a broader initiative to improve their working conditions. "This is about meeting real needs and creating a sense of belonging," said Ke Jie, the community's Party chief.