Deliveroo takes to the skies with drone delivery trial in Dublin

Credit: Deliveroo

Deliveroo has launched its first drone delivery service in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, through a partnership with Manna, a global leader in drone logistics. The trial, which began this week, allows customers within a 3km radius to receive meals from local favourites like Musashi, WOWBurger, Boojum, and Elephant & Castle in as little as three minutes of flight time – not including the full order duration.

The initiative marks Deliveroo’s latest step in its mission to enhance customer experience and explore faster, more sustainable delivery solutions, particularly in suburban and harder to reach locations.

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.”

The drones, operated from Manna’s local delivery hub, reach speeds of up to 80 km/h. Upon arrival, the drone hovers and gently lowers the food using a secure, biodegradable tether, offering a seamless and contact-free drop-off. As with traditional delivery options, customers can track the drone’s journey in the app and receive a notification as it approaches.

Bobby Healy, CEO and Founder of 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.”

Expanding the service

Deliveroo plans to expand the service to include more restaurants and introduce grocery and retail deliveries within six months. The technology not only bypasses traffic congestion but also supports Deliveroo’s net-zero ambitions by reducing emissions, making it a greener alternative to road-based couriers.

Bill Lang, owner of Musashi, one of the restaurants taking part in the pilot, said: “We have been serving up authentic sushi for years but never thought we’d see it in the sky, delivered to peoples’ 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.”

Manna has completed over 170,000 flights in Dublin 15 and holds full regulatory approval. The company equips each drone with multiple safety systems, including backup components and parachutes, while trained dispatchers actively monitor every flight.

Deliveroo has expressed interest in rolling out drone delivery to other markets, including the UK, and welcomed the government’s recent £20 million investment in commercial drone development. Last month, DoorDash confirmed it will acquire Deliveroo in a £2.9 billion all-cash deal, highlighting the company’s growing presence and innovation in the sector.

For partners interested in joining the Deliveroo’s drone delivery programme, visit: https://merchants.deliveroo.com/drone-delivery.