Grubhub has partnered with drone operator Dexa to test aerial food deliveries in Green Brook, New Jersey, US.
The three‑month pilot is described as the first commercial use of drones for food delivery in the state.
According to a statement, from 18 March, customers within a 2.5‑mile (4.02km) radius of Grubhub-owner Wonder's Green Brook location can place orders on the app and opt for drone delivery.
The test is intended to trial the integration of Dexa’s aerial delivery system and Grubhub’s marketplace platform.
Wonder’s multi‑restaurant format will allow customers to select from 15 different concepts, which will be made available for drone fulfilment within the service radius.
Wonder and Grubhub customer delivery operations senior vice-president Abhishek Poykayil said: “Our partnership with Dexa represents a major step forward in Grubhub's commitment to delivery innovation.
“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 trial relies on Dexa’s DE‑2020 aircraft, an automated drone designed to carry orders directly to residential addresses.
Both customers and restaurant teams will be able to access live GPS tracking. The service will also provide estimated arrival times and access confirmation updates during each delivery.
Dexa CEO Beth Flippo said: “Consumers want delivery that's faster and more reliable – and this collaboration shows what's possible when industry innovators come together.
“This service is a glimpse into the future of how autonomous technology will help restaurants and retailers serve customers at a completely new level.”
Once the three‑month run concludes, Grubhub will review the results and plan a larger rollout to include additional restaurant partners in surrounding areas.
Last month, Uber partnered with Irish drone operator Manna to introduce airborne food deliveries in Europe.
The move marked Uber’s first deployment of drone delivery services in the European market.
