The food delivery market has been experiencing significant growth worldwide, and Brazil is no exception to this trend. With consumers increasingly seeking more flexible and convenient dining options, the country stands out as an important player in the sector, accounting for 1.51% of the global revenue in the segment, according to Statista data. In total, the global delivery market moves an impressive US$ 1.40 trillion.
Impact of the Pandemic on the Delivery Market in Brazil
The Covid-19 pandemic was a turning point for the food industry. With social distancing measures in place and the closure of establishments, restaurants and bars had to reinvent themselves to survive. In 2020, the loss for the sector in Brazil reached R$ 60 billion, forcing entrepreneurs to seek alternatives to keep their businesses active.
The delivery presented itself as the most viable solution. Platforms like iFood have seen a significant increase in demand, while the concept of dark kitchens — kitchens that operate exclusively for delivery — has proliferated, eliminating the need for a physical space for customer service.
Trends Shaping the Delivery Sector in Brazil
The future of delivery in Brazil promises to be shaped by several innovative trends. Among the main ones, the following stand out:
- Artificial intelligence: Process automation and data analytics are improving operational efficiency and user experience.
- Drone Delivery: Autonomous vehicles are being tested to optimize delivery logistics, promising greater speed and efficiency.
- Smart Menus: Personalized menus based on consumer profiles expand reach and include options for dietary restrictions and individual preferences.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly and practical packaging that reduces waste is gaining importance, reflecting consumers' growing concern for the environment.
- Healthy Eating: There is a growing demand for healthier options, driven by increased concern for health and well-being.
Challenges for Delivery Platforms in Brazil
Despite the growth, the sector faces significant challenges. The internal competition is fierce, with iFood dominating the Brazilian market and making it difficult for new competitors to enter. Furthermore, many restaurants are investing in their own platforms, increasing the competition.
Logistics and efficiency are also critical points. With increasingly demanding consumers, companies need to keep up with technological advancements to ensure fast and quality deliveries, both in urban and remote areas. Another challenge is regulation and labor costs. The Brazilian government is discussing new regulations for app delivery drivers, which could impact the sector.
The Future of the Global Delivery Market
The global delivery market is expected to reach a revenue of $1.40 trillion in 2025, with a forecast to reach $1.89 trillion by 2029, an estimated annual growth of 7.83%. China and the United States remain the largest markets, but Brazil also shows positive prospects. The projected revenues for the country are US$ 21.18 billion in 2025 and US$ 27.81 billion in 2029, an annual growth of 7.04%.
Given this scenario, delivery tends to become even more consolidated among Brazilians, offering a viable and convenient alternative for the food sector, especially in times of economic uncertainty.
