Grubhub is testing drone delivery through a new partnership with Dexa, launching at Wonder’s Green Brook, New Jersey location.
Beginning March 18, eligible customers within a 2.5-mile radius can order Wonder through the Grubhub app and select drone delivery. Orders are expected to arrive faster than traditional delivery methods, with no additional cost beyond standard delivery and service fees, according to the delivery hub.
The three-month pilot marks the first time Grubhub and Wonder are offering drone delivery to customers, and will test how autonomous aerial technology integrates into Grubhub’s existing marketplace.
Related: Wonder Acquires Grubhub for $650 Million
Through Wonder’s multi-restaurant model, customers can order from up to 15 concepts in a single transaction, all prepared at the same location and available for drone ordering.
“Our partnership with Dexa represents a major step forward in Grubhub’s commitment to delivery innovation,” said Abhishek “PJ” Poykayil, SVP of customer delivery operations at Wonder and Grubhub. “By connecting Grubhub’s marketplace expertise, Wonder’s innovative mealtime platform, and Dexa’s expansive drone technology, we’re proud to introduce a faster and more efficient way for New Jersey diners to experience food delivery without compromising safety or reliability.”
The program uses Dexa’s DE-2020, a fully automated delivery aircraft. Before each flight, Dexa trained crews verify packaging and secure items. The drone lowers orders to the ground using a tether system.
“Consumers want delivery that’s faster and more reliable and this collaboration shows what’s possible when industry innovators come together,” said Beth Flippo, chief executive officer of Dexa. “This service is a glimpse into the future of how autonomous technology will help restaurants and retailers serve customers at a completely new level.”
Related: Wonder Begins Testing Robotic Delivery with Avride
The pilot builds on Grubhub’s broader push into autonomous delivery, including existing partnerships with robotics providers. Following the test, the company said it will evaluate and consider expanding drone delivery to additional restaurant partners.
