Just Eat Unveils Ground Robotics Delivery Trial in UK Cities
The food delivery giant Just Eat has initiated a new trial involving autonomous robot deliveries, which some customers are describing as "nightmare fuel." This innovative pilot program was officially launched on February 12, 2026, marking a significant step in the company's exploration of automated logistics solutions.
Details of the Robotics Delivery Experiment
Just Eat is conducting this small-scale experiment in two key locations: Bristol and Milton Keynes. In Bristol, the deliveries are being handled by robots from Delivers.AI, while in Milton Keynes, RIVR robots are being utilized. The trial involves a partnership with 10 independent restaurant brands, aiming to test the feasibility and efficiency of ground-based robotic deliveries.
The robots are designed to blend into the delivery ecosystem, featuring distinctive orange uniforms that align with Just Eat's branding. They have already commenced operations, delivering meals from local restaurants in the lead-up to Valentine's Day, one of the busiest periods for food delivery services.
Background and Expansion of Automated Deliveries
This trial follows an initial ground robotics pilot in Switzerland, where nearly 1,000 deliveries were successfully completed. Additionally, Just Eat continues to run a separate drone delivery trial in Ireland, showcasing the company's commitment to diversifying its delivery methods.
Just Eat has highlighted several potential advantages of ground and drone deliveries, including the ability to reach remote areas more effectively and enhance service reliability during peak times, such as holidays and weekends.
Public Reaction and Social Media Backlash
Despite the technological advancements, the launch has sparked mixed reactions from the British public. On social media platforms like Facebook, many users have expressed concerns and fears about the robots' appearance and presence.
- One individual commented, "Nightmare fuel, going to scare the life out of someone, who thought this was a good idea."
- Another added, "That b***** thing comes near me I will actually have a heart attack!"
- A third person worried, "My dog goes absolutely mental when a moped pulls up outside. I'm gonna have to settle a dog fight to get me chips then?"
Statements from Company Executives
Mert Öztekin, Chief Technology Officer at Just Eat, stated, "We’re always innovating to improve the delivery experience for our customers. To trial ground robotics we’ve teamed up with two expert organisations to ensure that we’re learning and working with the very best." He added, "For those in Bristol and Milton Keynes who love tech - what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than a robot delivery from your favourite local."
Oral Yigitkus, CTO and founder at Delivers.AI, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, "We’re excited to be partnering with Just Eat Takeaway in Bristol and to support local independent restaurants with our technology. This partnership is an important step in demonstrating how Delivers.AI’s ground robotics technology can complement existing delivery networks, helping to improve reliability, urban logistics, and the overall customer experience while supporting local high streets."
Marko Bjelonic, CEO of RIVR, emphasized the scalability of the initiative, noting, "Expanding our partnership with Just Eat Takeaway.com is an important step in scaling autonomous delivery across European cities. By automating delivery right to the customer’s doorstep, our technology removes friction and creates a more seamless experience for consumers. The launch in Milton Keynes reflects a shared focus on practical, automated delivery that integrates seamlessly into existing operations."
