Chowdeck has introduced a new vendor badge system designed to show customers whether a business on its platform has completed verification, is still undergoing checks, or is being served through its shopper model.

The update comes as food delivery platforms face increasing scrutiny around vendor authenticity, customer trust and accountability when businesses are listed on digital marketplaces.

New badge system aims to improve transparency

Under the new framework, vendors will be assigned one of three labels: "Verified", "Awaiting Verification", or "Shopper".

The Verified badge applies to businesses that have completed Chowdeck’s onboarding and verification requirements. Vendors awaiting verification can access limited platform functionality while their checks are completed, while businesses listed under the Shopper category are not direct Chowdeck partners and instead fulfil orders through designated shoppers who purchase items on behalf of customers.

The company said the badges are intended to help users better understand the status of businesses before placing orders.

Expanded verification requirements

According to Chowdeck, fully verified vendors must provide documentation including Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration details, Tax Identification Numbers (TIN), ownership information, operational addresses and banking details.

The company also said it works with verification providers to validate submitted information against official records before granting full platform access.

In addition to introducing badges, Chowdeck stated that it has strengthened onboarding reviews, expanded manual verification processes and introduced additional checks aimed at identifying impersonation, fraud and policy violations earlier in the onboarding process.



Industry-wide concerns around platform accountability

The update follows wider discussions around vendor verification standards within Nigeria’s growing food delivery sector.

Questions around onboarding processes, consumer protection and platform responsibility have become increasingly important as more consumers rely on delivery services for everyday purchases.

The introduction of visible verification indicators reflects a broader shift towards greater transparency in digital marketplaces, where customers are increasingly demanding clearer information about the businesses they engage with online.