Delivery platforms are driving growth for small businesses and saving billions of minutes for consumers, according to Wolt research, conducted in partnership with Copenhagen Economics and Taloustutkimus.
The survey of 7,000 consumers and merchants across 23 countries in Europe and Asia found that 80% of merchants have seen in-store sales grow or remain stable with delivery platforms, with 83% viewing the platforms as being important to their business. This is importance is further highlighted by 35% saying they would not offer delivery at all if platforms were to disappear.
The growth provided by delivery platforms is being further fuelled by the increased reach it provides businesses, and the convenience offered to customers. Two-thirds of consumer respondents said they had ordered from venues that would be too far away otherwise, while 72% said they appreciate the convenience of delivery.
“Our goal is to help local businesses thrive. As people shift to buy more and more online, platforms like Wolt play a crucial role in helping them stay competitive and match changing customer expectations,” said Tuomas Hurmerinta, Global Head of Wolt’s Merchant Business. “We’re proud of the work we’ve been able to do so far across 30+ markets, but we’re far from being done, and are constantly looking into new ways to be helpful.”
According to Wolt, its platform managed to generate more than €5 billion in sales for merchants across all markets in 2024. Meanwhile, it estimates that 8.5 billion minutes were saved globally by customers who opted for delivery over cooking last year.
“We make it easy for people to buy from nearby businesses, instead of purchasing the same items from warehouses hundreds of kilometres away,” said Hurmerinta. “Every local order keeps money in the community, supports small businesses, and helps cities thrive.”
