The test phase aims to assess how drones can enhance deliveries in suburban and hard-to-reach areas, extending Deliveroo’s reach and speeding up fulfilment beyond its current rider network.
Deliveroo has launched drone deliveries in Dublin, Ireland, through a partnership with Manna. The service is based in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 (D15), with Deliveroo conducting a test phase over the coming weeks.
The aim of the test phase is to explore how drones can support deliveries to suburban and harder-to-reach locations, expanding Deliveroo’s reach beyond its existing rider network and unlocking new customer bases through faster fulfilment.
In the initial phase, customers within a 3km radius of Blanchardstown will be able to order from local restaurants such as Musashi, WOWBurger, Boojum and Elephant & Castle, with drones capable of delivering food in as little as three minutes.
Drones will fly from Manna’s local delivery hub at speeds of up to 80 km/h. Upon arrival, each drone hovers and lowers the order using a biodegradable tether. Deliveroo plans to expand the pilot to include grocery and retail deliveries within the next six months.
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Deliveroo is considering expanding the service to other markets based on CX outcomes and regulatory developments. The company has also received the UK Government’s £20 million investment to support commercial drone deployment, seeing it as a step forward in making similar services possible for UK consumers.
Carlo Mocci, Chief Business Officer at Deliveroo, said, “Our mission is to bring local neighbourhood favourites to as many people’s doors as possible, and constantly raise the bar on the experience and service we provide – so I’m thrilled to launch drone deliveries in Dublin today.”
“We’re excited to explore how drones can help us reach new customers, complementing our existing rider model and, if successful, the prospect of expanding drone deliveries across Ireland and into other markets.”
Bobby Healy, CEO and Founder at Manna Air Delivery, said, “Air delivery is fast, clean, and safe, offering a new avenue for local businesses to reach more consumers. Manna Air Delivery is proud to partner with Deliveroo, a platform trusted by top local restaurants and eateries, to bring this innovative delivery experience to customers.”
Each drone is equipped with safety features, including backup systems and a parachute, and is monitored by a dedicated dispatcher throughout its flight. Eligible customers within the correct radius will need to validate their address via the app before it confirms a suitable pin location for a safe drop off, typically a driveway, front or back garden.
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