Deliveroo launches drone delivery in Dublin

Deliveroo has launched a drone delivery service in Dublin, Ireland, through a new partnership with global drone operator Manna.

Customers within a 3km radius of Blanchardstown will be able to order from local restaurants – including Musashi, Wowburger, Boojum and Elephant and Castle – and have meals delivered by drone in as little as three minutes.

Eligible users will need to validate their address in the Deliveroo app, which will confirm a suitable pin location for safe delivery, typically a driveway or garden. Orders can be tracked as usual, with notifications sent when the drone is approaching.

Deliveroo stated that the initial rollout would be used to assess how drones can help reach suburban or “harder-to-serve” locations, with the aim of offering “super-fast” deliveries and expanding its customer base. 

The company plans to add more restaurant partners and introduce drone delivery for groceries and retail within six months.

Drones will be operated by Manna from a local delivery hub, flying at speeds of up to 80km/h. Upon arrival, the drone hovers and lowers the package to the ground using a secure, biodegradable tether.

Manna has already completed more than 170,000 flights in Dublin 15 and holds full regulatory approval. Each drone is fitted with safety systems, including backup power, a parachute and continuous monitoring by a dispatcher.

Deliveroo said the initiative may be extended to other markets, depending on customer benefits and the progress of local drone regulations. The company welcomed the UK government’s recent £20m investment in commercial drone operations.

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 dr one 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, chief executive and founder of Manna, added: “Air delivery is fast, clean, and safe, offering a new avenue for local businesses to reach more consumers. Manna is proud to partner with Deliveroo, a platform trusted by top local restaurants and eateries, to bring this innovative delivery experience to customers.”

Bill Lang, owner of Musashi, concluded: “We have been serving up authentic sushi for years but never thought we’d see it in the sky, delivered to people’s doorsteps by drone. Musashi is delighted to extend our partnership with Deliveroo to drone deliveries, helping us to reach even more customers in the Blanchardstown area.”