The global food-delivery market that boomed during the pandemic is gearing up for another wave of growth in the coming years, driven by last year’s rise in quick-commerce and subscription services. With the four biggest players reporting gains, analysts expect near–double-digit expansion ahead.
Grand View Research, a global market research and consulting firm, estimates the online food-delivery market will expand 75%—from $288,836,500,000 (about 432 trillion KRW) in 2024 to $505,500,000,000 (about 757 trillion KRW) by 2030. It projects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 9.4% from 2025 through 2030.
The firm says this growth is largely due to higher smartphone and internet adoption. As cheaper phones and faster networks reach more people, ordering food online has become easier and more convenient.
That study only covered restaurant and prepared-meal delivery. If grocery delivery were included, the market would be at least twice as large.
Statista’s December report forecasts online food-delivery revenue of about $1,540,000,000,000 (about 2,308 trillion KRW) this year. It expects the market to rise roughly 31% to around $2,030,000,000,000 (about 3,042 trillion KRW) by 2030.
Statista also notes that subscription models offering customized meal plans for specific dietary preferences are gaining traction—especially among younger consumers who value unique culinary experiences.
Major global delivery platforms demonstrated that trend last year. DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grab and Delivery Hero all reported increases in transaction volume, revenue and operating profit. These companies attribute much of their momentum to subscription memberships and quick-commerce expansion strategies.
By Sang-geun Byun sgbyun@etnews.com
