Brazil is one of the main global markets for food delivery, and the trend is continuous growth. Delivery platforms have been investing in variety and quality, expanding the options available to consumers
In this context, the estimate is that the country has 90,5 million delivery users by the end of 2029, according to data from Statista. That is to say, the number will approach half of the Brazilian population
With this growth, companies in the sector seek to serve new audiences more efficiently, which also increases the demand
Food delivery continues to expand among Brazilians
Currently, about 40% of Brazilians use delivery platforms, according to a survey by Ticket. After the growth caused by the pandemic, the segment maintained its upward trajectory due to the search for practicality and speed in daily life
Globally, the sector is expected to generate US$ 1,4 trillion in 2025, according to Statista. Furthermore, the number of consumers will continue to rise, potentially corresponding to about one third of the world population by the end of 2029
In Brazil, iFood leads the market, but an increasing number of restaurants have been investing in their own delivery platforms. Furthermore, economic uncertainties make delivery an attractive alternative, because it allows for the optimization of operational costs
Profile of the delivery consumer in Brazil
The growth in demand for delivery is directly linked to changes in consumption habits. Ticket's research revealed relevant data about the profile of Brazilians who use these services
Generation Z, composed of people between 15 and 28 years old, it is the main audience of delivery, with 51% of this group using platforms of this type. This age group, more digitized and connected to technological innovations, has greater familiarity with online services
The most frequent orders include fast food, like hamburgers and pizzas, besides traditional dishes of Brazilian cuisine and meats. At the same time, the consumption of healthy foods has grown 98% in recent years, according to Sebrae
Furthermore, the increase in demand for natural and vegan options has led platforms to diversify their offerings in this segment
Challenges and opportunities for the sector
Despite the growth, the delivery market presents challenges, mainly for new companies, since iFood holds 80% of the orders. However, the adoption of proprietary platforms by restaurants and supermarkets is gaining ground
A consolidated trend is the dark kitchens model, that function askitchens for delivery, without in-person service. Statista projects that, by 2030, this format will account for half of the global delivery services
Artificial intelligence has also been incorporated into the sector to personalize service based on consumer behavior. Data analysis allows for offering meals and promotions more efficiently
Logistics remains a challenge, whether for quick deliveries in large urban centers or to reach more remote areas. That's why, solutions such as automated routes and the use of autonomous vehicles are being tested by companies in the sector
The increase in demand also reinforces the need for variety in menus. Companies that prioritize specific diets and food restrictions can stand out in the competition
Growth trend expected to continue in the future
In Brazil, the food delivery market is expected to reach US$ 21,18 billion in revenue in 2025. The expectation is for an annual growth of 7,05% until 2029, reaching US$ 27,81 billion
With the expansion of dark kitchens and the advancement of technological innovations, delivery tends to become even more accessible, expanding its operations to other segments of the food industry