Deliveroo launch drone deliveries in Dublin

Ellen O'Donoghue

Deliveroo has launched drone deliveries in Dublin.

Over the coming days, customers within a 3km radius of Blanchardstown will be able to order from local restaurants. Plans are to launch grocery and retail drop-offs within the next six months.

The drone deliveries are powered by Manna, and the test phase in Blanchardstown will see orders from local restaurants flown to customers "in as little as three minutes".

Deliveroo have said they will use the initial weeks to assess how drones can help serve suburban and harder to reach locations.

Restaurants included in using the drone deliveries will include Musashi, WOW Burger, Boojum and Elephant & Castle.

This is the first time the platform has offered drone delivery for its customers anywhere in the world.

Drones will be deployed from Manna’s local delivery hub, flying at speeds of up to 80km/h with a flight time of as little as three minutes, Deliveroo said.

Upon arrival, the drone hovers and lowers the food to the ground via a secure, biodegradable tether, ensuring a seamless and contact-free delivery experience.

Carlo Mocci, chief business officer at Deliveroo, said that their mission is to bring local neighbourhood favourites to as many people's doors as possible.

"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."

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.

Once an order is placed, they will be able to track the delivery as usual and will be notified when the drone is nearby so they can receive the order.