DoorDash Launches New Drone Delivery Program in Charlotte
DoorDash, in partnership with Wing, announced a new drone delivery program in Charlotte, NC. The program allows customers within a four-mile radius of the Arboretum Shopping Center in south Charlotte to order from a selection of local and national restaurants and have their meal delivered by drone.
The Charlotte expansion is the most recent step in the successful partnership between Wing and DoorDash. The companies first launched this service in Southwest Virginia, then Australia, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area. This project is the result of the DoorDash Labs program that develops robotics and automation for food delivery services.
How it works:
Eligible DoorDash customers will see a drone delivery option appear in the DoorDash app. If their order meets the drone delivery criteria, they can choose to have their order delivered by drone and track its progress in the app. Drone deliveries will likely lead to a significant increase in the speed of delivery.
Additionally, Panera is offering a special for a limited time for customers who utilize this new drone delivery option.
What they are saying:
“Autonomous delivery will help shape the future of local logistics, and we’re proud to introduce drone delivery to Charlotte for the first time with Wing,” said Harrison Shih, Head of Product for DoorDash Labs. “What makes this launch special isn’t just the technology, it’s the experience. Whether it’s your favorite Panera sandwich, a savory snack from DashMart, or a local matcha latte on DoorDash, there’s something special about watching your order arrive by air in minutes. DoorDash and Wing aren’t just delivering faster, we’re delivering what’s next.”
“We are committed to continuously redefining convenience and unlocking innovative ways to enhance the Panera experience, and we’re thrilled to partner with DoorDash and Wing on this pilot,” said Meenakshi Nagarajan, Chief Digital Officer, Panera Bread. “This partnership offers a cutting-edge way to deliver the quality and craveability that our guests know and love, right to their doorstep.”
“Charlotte is a city that embraces technology solutions to big transportation challenges,” Wing CEO Adam Woodworth said. “We’re incredibly excited to launch Wing’s drone delivery service there and we’re grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received from the city and its residents.”
