Deliveroo to launch autonomous delivery robots in the UK

Deliveroo is set to launch autonomous food and grocery delivery robots across five locations in the United Kingdom. The initial rollout will take place in Canary Wharf in east London, Milton Keynes, Leeds, Stockton-on-Tees, and Nottingham, all of which currently permit robot operations.

The company has entered an exclusive partnership with the US-based technology firm Coco to provide the compact, four-wheeled vehicles. These robots utilize artificial intelligence, sensors, and cameras to navigate streets and pavements at approximately walking speed.

Deliveroo CEO Miki Kuusi stated that the technology is intended to complement rather than replace human couriers. He noted that while robots can assist in certain neighborhoods or for specific merchants, human riders will remain essential, particularly in high-density urban environments. The company is currently lobbying local councils and the Department for Transport to secure permission for a broader national rollout.