Projected Growth to Reach 2.2 Billion Users by 2029
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Food delivery is expanding beyond restaurants. An increasing number of consumers prefer to receive supermarket and grocery items directly at home, driving market growth.
The grocery delivery sector is projected to reach 2.2 billion users by 2029. Currently, Statista estimates the market value of this segment at US$940 billion.
This trend suggests that, alongside ready-made meals, supermarket and grocery products are becoming highly sought-after in delivery services.
Delivery Expected to Maintain Steady Growth in the Coming Years
With an annual growth rate of 10.07% until 2029, demand for grocery delivery is set to rise, reaching a market volume of US$1.38 trillion by the end of this period.
Within this sector, food retail is a key driver, expected to generate approximately US$729 billion in revenue this year. According to Statista experts, various factors contribute to this growth:
- Accelerated digitalization: increasing internet connectivity is expanding access to delivery services worldwide.
- Demand for convenience and efficiency: consumers prioritize quick and practical solutions for food shopping, making delivery an increasingly attractive option.
- Impact of the pandemic: health restrictions accelerated the adoption of delivery services, solidifying them as a viable and preferred choice for food consumption.
Global Markets Show Positive Growth
The rising demand for delivery services is a worldwide phenomenon. In the United States, for example, online supermarket sales grew by 50% in just one year.
In China, the sector is projected to reach US$200 billion by 2025. The country leads Asia’s delivery market, followed by South Korea, which also reports significant growth.
In countries like India, physical stores still dominate. However, delivery is gaining popularity, particularly among younger, tech-savvy consumers.
Technological Innovations Set to Shape the Future
The expansion of delivery services has driven technological advancements aimed at improving efficiency and enhancing the consumer experience. Key trends for the coming years include:
- Artificial intelligence: automating processes and personalizing services based on consumer preferences.
- Autonomous delivery vehicles: companies are testing drones and other automated transport methods to optimize deliveries.
- Smart menus: data analysis enables businesses to adjust their offerings according to customer demand, including healthier options.
- Flexible payment options: platforms are expanding payment methods to optimize transactions.
Consumer Behavior Drives the Rise of Delivery
According to Statista, speed and convenience are the primary reasons American consumers prefer delivery over visiting restaurants or supermarkets.
Globally, the ease of ordering food online has prompted supermarkets to adapt to this business model. While restaurants invest in cloud kitchens, supermarkets maintain a strong physical presence but are steadily transitioning to digital platforms.
Major retail chains now operate their own delivery services or partner with platforms like Uber Eats, which are expanding their presence in the supermarket sector.
Delivery: A Growing Opportunity for Entrepreneurs
Delivery services not only provide convenience to consumers but also offer economic advantages for businesses. This model reduces operational costs and expands customer reach.
It is particularly appealing for new initiatives, especially in countries facing economic challenges.
By 2025, the United States is expected to lead the grocery delivery market in revenue, creating opportunities for new businesses and investments.
Future Outlook for Grocery Delivery
Projections indicate that the grocery delivery market will continue to expand, mirroring the overall growth of the delivery sector. The United States is expected to maintain a leading position, with convenience and security remaining key drivers of this trend.
Experts consider delivery to be the future of the food sector, emphasizing the importance of digital investments for companies seeking to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market.
