Deliveroo drone trials in Dublin set to revolutionise takeaway delivery

Deliveroo has launched a groundbreaking trial of drone deliveries in Dublin, partnering with Irish aerial distributor Manna to explore faster and more sustainable food delivery methods. The trial, which begins in the northern suburb of Blanchardstown, will assess the feasibility of using drones to transform delivery services.

Customers within a three-kilometre radius of Blanchardstown can order dishes such as sushi from Musashi, burritos from Boojum, and burgers from Elephant and Castle. Deliveroo has designed the service to offer deliveries in as little as three minutes, bypassing road traffic by using drones capable of flying at speeds of 50mph. The drones operate from Manna’s local hub, safely lowering food to the ground via a biodegradable tether.

The company aims to expand this service over the coming months, adding more restaurants to its programme and branching into grocery deliveries. This initiative reflects Deliveroo’s ambition to enhance its presence in suburban areas while improving delivery times and reducing emissions. The versatility of drone technology offers an alternative to traditional delivery methods, complementing Deliveroo’s rider model.

Deliveroo’s chief business officer, Carlo Mocci, expressed optimism about the trial, highlighting its potential to attract new customers and future international expansion. Bobby Healy, founder and chief executive of Manna, noted the benefits of air delivery, describing it as fast, clean, and safe while providing local businesses with new avenues to reach customers efficiently.

Deliveroo, founded by Will Shu in 2013, currently operates in nine markets with 140,000 delivery drivers and 176,000 restaurant partners. Most of its business is centred in the UK and Ireland, with additional operations in countries such as France, Italy, Belgium, and Qatar. As Deliveroo explores drone options, it also maintains retail partnerships with companies like B&Q, The Perfume Shop, and Not On The High Street.

Last month, Deliveroo was acquired for £2.9 billion by American delivery firm DoorDash. The company plans to further innovate its services to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving food delivery market.