Grubhub and Dexa Launch New Jersey’s First Drone-Powered Food Delivery Program
Three-month pilot at Wonder’s Green Brook location will test drone delivery for local diners
Grubhub has announced a new drone delivery test program in partnership with Dexa. The initiative will serve customers ordering from Wonder’s Green Brook, New Jersey location. The program marks the first time commercial drone technology will be used for food delivery in the state.
The three-month test will begin on March 18. Eligible customers within a 2.5-mile radius of the restaurant will be able to select drone delivery through the Grubhub app. According to the companies, drone delivery should arrive faster than traditional methods. Customers will not pay any additional fee beyond standard delivery and service charges.
The project combines Grubhub’s delivery marketplace with Dexa’s automated drone technology. It also highlights Wonder’s multi-restaurant concept, which allows several restaurant brands to operate from one location.
“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.”
Testing Drone Delivery for Restaurant Orders
Customers ordering from Wonder’s Green Brook site can choose from 15 restaurant concepts. All meals are prepared on demand at a single facility. The companies say the model pairs well with drone delivery because it allows efficient preparation and dispatch from one location.
The drone system uses Dexa’s DE-2020 aircraft. The vehicle is designed for fully automated delivery operations.
Dexa is one of only four U.S. companies that both manufactures and operates delivery drones under Federal Aviation Administration Part 135 Air Carrier certification. The certification allows companies to conduct commercial drone delivery operations that meet FAA safety standards.
Before each flight, trained crew members confirm that the order is packaged correctly and secured. The process also follows food-safety and operational guidelines.
During delivery, the drone lowers the order to the ground using a tether system. This approach allows the aircraft to remain airborne while placing the package at the delivery location.
The companies say the aircraft uses advanced autonomy and secure communication systems. Flights follow approved routes that prioritize safety while reducing noise and disruption for nearby residents.
Integrated Ordering and Delivery Tracking
Customers will interact with the system through the Grubhub platform. The app manages ordering, tracking, and delivery updates.
Users can follow the drone’s progress through real-time GPS tracking. The app also provides estimated arrival notifications and order confirmations.
Grubhub says the system aims to make drone delivery feel familiar to users already ordering through the platform.
“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.”
Pilot Program and Community Demonstration
The drone delivery pilot will run for three months. After the test period, Grubhub plans to review the results and determine whether to expand the program to other restaurants and locations.
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The initiative also builds on Grubhub’s broader efforts to explore new delivery technologies. The company has previously worked with partners across the United States to test robotics and autonomous delivery systems.
Before the service begins, Grubhub and Dexa will host a public demonstration event in Green Brook. Drone demonstrations will take place on March 16 at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. ET. A rain date is scheduled for March 17 at the same times.
The event will allow local residents to see the aircraft and learn more about how the delivery system works before the program launches.
If the pilot proves successful, the companies say it could help shape future approaches to fast, automated last-mile delivery for restaurants and retailers.