Deliveroo, a takeaway company, announced plans to begin using food delivery robots in five locations across Britain in the coming weeks. The company's chief executive, Miki Kuusi, emphasized that this initiative will not lead to the elimination of human riders. Deliveroo has faced criticism for its practices within the gig economy.
The robots, developed by US tech firm Coco, will operate in areas including Canary Wharf in east London, Milton Keynes, Leeds, Stockton-on-Tees, and Nottingham, where local councils have already permitted robot deliveries. Deliveroo is also seeking permission from councils and the Department for Transport to expand the use of this technology.
Kuusi stated, 'This is not about replacing people. Especially in high-density, urban environments, you’re always going to need people who do deliveries.' He explained that the goal is to optimize the fleet mix rather than fully automate delivery services.
Competitors such as Just Eat are also exploring automation, utilizing robots from tech firm Starship in certain regions. Concerns have been raised by the charity Living Streets regarding the safety and accessibility of pavements for the elderly and disabled due to the presence of delivery robots.
Kuusi defended the robots, asserting that they integrate well into urban settings. Deliveroo was founded in 2013 by Will Shu and Greg Orlowski and was acquired by US delivery company DoorDash for £2.9 billion in October 2025. The company has faced scrutiny over its treatment of riders, who are classified as self-employed and do not receive traditional employment benefits. Deliveroo has stated it conducts right-to-work checks on all riders to prevent illegal working.