£767m on-demand delivery startup celebrates first anniversary and Tesco partnership

On-demand delivery service, Gorillas, is celebrating its first anniversary of UK operations this month, after first launching in London in March 2021.

Throughout its first year, Gorillas has reached a number of business milestones, including being the fastest ever European startup to reach a $1bn (approx. £767m) valuation.

The brand’s expansion over the course of its first year is also reflected in its rates of employee growth. The UK team is now 2,523-strong, with 146 in the head office and 2,377 riders and warehouse staff managing operations.

During its first year, Gorillas has worked with over 50 local suppliers from across the UK, supporting a number of local and independent businesses by broadening their customer base via the Gorillas network, including the likes of H.G. Walter, Minor Figures, Hackney Gelato and Strong Roots.

Having already delivered over eight million products to consumers around the UK, in its first year, Gorillas also announced an industry first partnership with leading supermarket retailer, Tesco, in October 2021.

This commercial and real-estate partnership provides consumers the combined offering of Tesco’s range of products delivered in minutes by Gorillas. Started as a trial in London’s Thornton Heath and Lewisham stores, the partnership has now extended to Manchester’s Tesco Stretford store.

A landmark year for the leading delivery service, Gorillas also announced the launch of its very-own record label, Pedal Records, as well as the acquisition of French delivery pioneer Frichti and a multi-year partnership with football team Paris Saint-Germain.

Christopher Chaaya, general manager for Gorillas UK, said: “We can’t believe it’s only been one year since we first launched in London at our Shoreditch warehouse. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, expanding to dozens of micro-fulfilment centres in London alone, and a further four regional locations across the UK.

“Not only have we been delivering high quality groceries to consumers over the last year, we’ve also developed a number of landmark partnerships with the likes of Tesco, and recently UK foodie favourites MOB, whilst also supporting our network of incredibly talented independent suppliers.

“It’s safe to say, it’s been a busy year, and we can’t wait for you all to see what we have in store for the next 12 months.”