Panic on the streets of Nottingham: GMB union slams Deliveroo and Coco Robotics delivery robots trial
The GMB union, which represents couriers across Deliveroo's rider network, has hit out at the quick commerce company’s trial of delivery robots on Nottingham streets. As reported by RTIH earlier this month, these are supplied by US company Coco and will be used for takeaways and groceries, with Deliveroo claiming that there are no plans to replace human riders but rather the move complements them during off peak hours.
Canary Wharf, Milton Keynes, Leeds, Stockton-on-Tees, and Nottingham are the initial areas to get the service, with plans afoot for a broader UK roll-out.
Deliveroo runs a three-sided marketplace across roughly restaurants, grocers and retailers, all promising delivery in as little as 30 minutes. It is also a DoorDash subsidiary now, after being taken over by the US giant in a deal valuing the business at £2.9 billion. So this move shouldn’t come as a huge surprise.
Claude Bahati, GMB Organiser, says: "If Deliveroo can afford to invest in autonomous technology, why can it not invest properly in the workers who keep the platform running every day? Innovation should not come at the expense of real people, and these developments must always be negotiated with workers.”
He adds: "It is disappointing that engagement from Deliveroo or the Mayor has not been forthcoming. Food couriers continue to struggle with rising living costs and are calling for fairer pay and compensation for return journeys. At the same time, many riders face poor treatment at work, often being forced to wait outside in all weather conditions without being given access to the facilities and support needed to do their job.”
"Decision makers must pay greater attention to the realities of the gig economy and ensure that riders are treated with dignity, respect and fairness. Deliveroo’s future must include investment in the people who have built its success, not just it's technologies."
Deliveroo did not respond to our request for comment.
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
Automation will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards, which celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world, have now closed for entries. Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2026 shortlists and finalists here.
We received a record number of entries this year and many fantastic examples of technology excellence driving transformative change across the global retail sector.
Congratulations to all those who made it through the initial submission process! It’s now over to our star studded judging panel who will decide the winners to be announced at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London.
The event will be held on Wednesday, 4th November and consist of a drinks reception, three course meal, awards ceremony presided over by award winning stand-up comedian, presenter, actor and broadcaster, Aurie Styla, and after party until 1am.
Click here to book your place at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, 4th November.
