Grubhub launches drone food delivery program in Somerset County, first in New Jersey
Three‑month program at Wonder’s Green Brook location will bring fast drone delivery to local customers
GREEN BROOK TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — A new drone-powered food delivery program is set to launch in Somerset County, marking the first commercial use of drone technology for food delivery in New Jersey.
Grubhub announced it will begin a three-month test program March 18 in partnership with Dexa, integrating drone delivery for customers ordering from Wonder’s location in Green Brook Township.
Under the program, customers within a 2.5-mile radius can choose drone delivery through the Grubhub app at no additional cost beyond standard delivery and service fees. Officials said the service is expected to provide faster delivery than traditional methods.
“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.”
The program uses Dexa’s DE-2020, a fully automated aircraft designed for residential deliveries. The company is one of a limited number of U.S. operators certified under Federal Aviation Administration Part 135 regulations, which govern air carrier operations.
Before each flight, crews verify packaging and safety standards, and deliveries are lowered to the ground using a tether system. Flight paths are designed to prioritize safety and reduce noise in surrounding communities.
Customers will be able to track deliveries in real time through the Grubhub platform, which will manage communication, notifications and support.
“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.”
The pilot program will allow Grubhub to evaluate the technology and consider expanding drone delivery to additional locations and restaurant partners in the future.
