Uber Proposes $13.7 Billion Acquisition of Delivery Hero to Expand Global Delivery Network

Doha, Qatar Jul 18, 2026 ALN: Uber Technologies has made headlines with its recent proposal to acquire Delivery Hero, a prominent player in the global food delivery market. The proposed voluntary cash takeover offer is valued at approximately $13.7 billion after accounting for shares and economic interests already held by Uber. This acquisition is significant as it highlights Uber's strategic intent to expand its global delivery network, particularly in a market that has seen substantial growth and competition in recent years.

Delivery Hero, headquartered in Berlin, is one of the largest food delivery companies worldwide, operating across 50 markets and generating around $42 billion in gross bookings during 2025. The company's extensive portfolio includes several well-known brands such as talabat, foodpanda, Glovo, HungerStation, PedidosYa, and Baedal Minjok. Notably, the acquisition includes talabat operations in Qatar and other Middle Eastern countries, which are critical markets for food delivery services.

The acquisition is not just a straightforward buyout; it also involves a separate agreement where Delivery Hero will sell its businesses in 14 markets to New York-based investment firm SSW Partners for approximately $1.6 billion. This strategic move is aimed at consolidating operations in regions where there is an overlap between Uber Eats and Delivery Hero, allowing both companies to streamline their services and reduce competition in specific markets.

The support from Delivery Hero’s Management Board and Supervisory Board for Uber's takeover proposal indicates a favorable outlook for the merger. Both boards have unanimously welcomed the proposal and intend to recommend that shareholders accept the offer, pending their review of the formal offer document. Additionally, Prosus, which holds about 17% of Delivery Hero's outstanding shares, has committed to tender its shares, which would increase Uber's economic interest in Delivery Hero to approximately 53%. This level of shareholder support is crucial for the success of the acquisition.

Uber’s CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi, emphasized that the merger would create a synergy between Uber’s global technology platform and Delivery Hero’s established local brands, merchant partnerships, and delivery networks. This combination is expected to enhance the customer experience by providing a broader range of services and options. Delivery Hero’s CEO, Niklas Östberg, echoed this sentiment, viewing the agreement as an opportunity to leverage Uber's global reach to expand and strengthen the company's food delivery and quick-commerce services.

From a strategic perspective, this acquisition is anticipated to significantly increase Uber's market presence. The merger would expand the number of markets where Uber offers both mobility and delivery services from 34 to 58. This growth is expected to create additional demand for merchants, provide more earning opportunities for couriers and drivers, and offer customers greater choice in food delivery options. Uber has also indicated that the transaction is expected to positively impact its adjusted earnings per share, projecting a high-single-digit percentage benefit by the third year post-acquisition.

In terms of operational commitments, Uber has pledged to retain Delivery Hero’s headquarters in Berlin and ensure that there will be no changes to its Berlin workforce until at least 2029. This commitment is significant as it reflects Uber's intention to maintain stability within Delivery Hero’s operations and workforce during the integration process. Furthermore, Uber has committed to investing €2 billion in Germany over the next five years, signaling its long-term commitment to the region and its workforce.

The completion of this acquisition is subject to several conditions, including the acceptance of the offer by shareholders representing at least 50% plus one share of Delivery Hero’s outstanding capital, including shares already held by Uber. Additionally, the transaction will require merger-control and financial regulatory approvals, which can be a complex and time-consuming process. The anticipated completion timeframe for this acquisition is during the second half of 2027, provided all conditions are met and approvals are granted.

The implications of this acquisition extend beyond just the operational aspects of both companies. The merger reflects a broader trend in the food delivery industry, where competition is intensifying as consumer demand for delivery services continues to rise. Companies are increasingly looking to consolidate their operations to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and expand their market reach. This acquisition could set a precedent for future mergers and acquisitions in the industry as companies seek to strengthen their positions in a rapidly evolving market.

Moreover, the acquisition could have significant implications for consumers, merchants, and delivery personnel. For consumers, the merger may lead to improved service offerings, more competitive pricing, and a wider selection of food options as Uber integrates Delivery Hero's local brands into its platform. For merchants, the expanded network could provide increased visibility and access to a larger customer base, potentially driving higher sales. Lastly, for delivery personnel, the merger could create more job opportunities and increased earning potential as the combined company seeks to enhance its delivery workforce.

In conclusion, Uber's proposed acquisition of Delivery Hero represents a strategic move to bolster its position in the competitive food delivery market. With strong backing from Delivery Hero's boards and significant shareholder support, the acquisition is poised to reshape the landscape of food delivery services worldwide. As the deal progresses through regulatory approvals and shareholder acceptance, it will be closely watched by industry analysts, competitors, and consumers alike, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the food delivery sector.