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.

Delighted to announce @MannaAero partnership with @CocaCola today. https://t.co/UTxkpzG2IB
— 𝘽𝙤𝙗𝙗𝙮 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙮 🚁 ⚕ (@realBobbyHealy) June 14, 2021

“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.