Coca-Cola and Manna announce drone delivery trial in Ireland

Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland has partnered with Manna for a drone delivery service in Oranmore, Galway.

This is pitched as the largest commercial drone delivery trial of its kind in the world, with plans for further roll-out to Irish towns in the coming months.

Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Fanta, Sprite and the Schweppes range will be available via the Manna platform.

“The coronavirus pandemic has naturally increased at home occasions, with consumers seeking to create special experiences at home,” says Annmarie Markey, Coca-Cola HBC’S Head of E-commerce.

“In essence, our partnership with Manna will be our first direct-to-consumer offering – delivering our drinks directly and rapidly to homes across Oranmore, with or without a take-away or other delivery.”

"This exciting partnership builds on our strategy to make our products available to consumers 24/7, with a more agile route to market. It also supports our commitment to sustainability, exploring exciting new technology, to help to reduce carbon emissions.”

Series A funding round

Manna recently announced a $25 million Series A funding round, led by Draper Esprit.

Founded in 2018 by entrepreneur Bobby Healy, it has developed aviation grade drones that fly at 80km/h and deliver goods including groceries, takeaways and medicines, within a 3km radius in less than three minutes.

The venture has inked partnerships with a number of brands and retailers including Tesco, Samsung and Just Eat. 

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Drone deliveryStaff WriterCoca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland, Manna, Ireland, E-commerce, Drone delivery, Coca-Cola, Coronavirus, Online delivery, Funding rounds, StartupsComment