Grubhub announced a test program March 11 integrating the drone delivery service of Dexa for customers ordering from restaurant Wonder’s Green Brook location.
The initiative is a major step for highly automated delivery in New Jersey and would be the first-time drone technology is used for commercial food delivery in the state.
Beginning March 18, eligible customers within a 2.5-mile delivery radius of Wonder’s Green Brook location on Route 22 can order Wonder through the Grubhub app and opt for drone delivery, which should arrive faster than traditional delivery methods. Grubhub said there is no added cost beyond standard delivery and service fees.
The three-month program will test the integration of advanced aerial technology within Grubhub’s existing marketplace platform and mark the first time Chicago-based Grubhub and Wonder of New York City are bringing drone delivery to its customers.
Through Wonder’s restaurant model, diners are able to choose from 15 concepts for drone delivery, all prepared to order within one location. The blend of culinary variety, quality, and operational efficiency pairs naturally with the speed and precision of drone delivery.
“Our partnership with Dexa represents a major step forward in Grubhub’s commitment to delivery innovation,” said Abhishek “PJ” Poykayil, senior vice president 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 features Dexa’s DE-2020, a fully automated delivery aircraft designed to transport goods directly to customers’ homes. Dexa is one of only four U.S. companies that manufactures and operates Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 135 Air Carrier–certified delivery drones. The company’s operations meet all FAA safety requirements.
Before each flight, Dexa’s flight crews verify that all items are packaged correctly and secured in accordance with operational and food‑safety standards. During delivery, the drone places orders on the ground using a controlled tether system.
Powered by advanced autonomy and secure communications technology, the DE‑2020 is engineered for precision, reliability, and safe operation in real‑world conditions. Deliveries follow approved flight paths designed to prioritize safety and minimize noise and disruption.
The workflow involves delivery tracking, customer communication and support managed through the Grubhub platform. Diners and staff can access real‑time GPS tracking, estimated arrival notifications and order confirmations.
“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 Dayton, Ohio-based 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.”
Following the three-month test program, Grubhub will evaluate the results and explore expanding drone delivery to additional restaurant partners.
Ahead of the launch, Grubhub and Dexa will host a community event at Wonder’s Green Brook location on March 16 with drone demonstrations at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. (with a rain date of March 17 at the same times).
