DoorDash launches 15-minute grocery delivery in NYC

Online food delivery platform DoorDash on Monday is introducing “ultra-fast” grocery deliveries in 15 minutes or less beginning with a new DashMart location in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, with more locations and partners coming over the next few months. 

“As the largest and most reliable logistics network in the U.S., DoorDash is positioned to enter this emerging industry and provide consistent quality, speed and convenience that customers know and trust,” said Christopher Payne, president of DoorDash. “Many New Yorkers already turn to DoorDash for their next meal or essentials purchases, which puts us in an exciting place to deliver on the promise of ultra-fast delivery. Consumers increasingly expect an effortless, enjoyable experience, so while we are starting with DashMarts, our goal is to expand this offering to select grocery and convenience partners.”

Starting Monday, customers within the delivery zone can visit the DoorDash app or website, toggle to the convenience tab and place an order from DashMart for a 15-minute or less delivery. Customers who have DashPass will see $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees on their orders. The DashMart Chelsea location will be open from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily, including holidays. 

In an ongoing effort to reduce food waste, DoorDash will donate excess DashMart produce to Chelsea Community Fridge & Cupboard. 

Related:DoorDash delivery can now include products from multiple stores

The new 15-minute deliveries will offer an opportunity for couriers who are seeking a set schedule and more regular earnings as these deliveries require a different operating model to ensure orders are fulfilled instantly and merchant and customer expectations are met. DashCorps, a DoorDash company, will employ full-time courier employees who will work regular schedules, be actively managed and use a new app designed specifically for their unique work, which includes job responsibilities beyond delivery. Roles also come with benefits of traditional employment such as hourly earnings and medical, dental and vision insurance.

“Millions of people across the country turn to platforms like DoorDash to earn supplemental income when, where and how they choose, providing them with unique flexibility and choice that is so valuable,” said Payne. “We’re proud to be a leader in providing economic opportunities that fit the lives of so many people.  And now, we’re excited about the new employment opportunity that DashCorps offers for a different type of work.”

In 2020, DoorDash introduced DashMarts to create a virtual, one-stop-shop store for customers in need of a variety of essential items on-demand, while also providing a new channel for local businesses to reach consumers online, transforming how merchant partners can sell their retail products. DashMarts now offer more than 2,000 items, including fresh and frozen grocery staples, snacks, household goods, and local products.

Related:DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart challenge major e-commerce retailers

In New York, DoorDash has already expanded its partnerships with local merchants to offer packaged staples from restaurants New Yorkers love such as Carbone Fine Foods’ Pasta Sauces, Roberta’s Frozen Pizzas, and Baz Bagels. Today, DashMarts support nearly 400 local and regional producers/retailers including Cravory Cookies in San Diego and The Cookie Fellow in Dallas.