Delivery Hero Lifts Outlook Amid Takeover

German delivery platform Delivery Hero has raised its annual growth forecasts after stronger demand for food, groceries and other everyday purchases helped its third-quarter orders reach one billion.

The Berlin-based group said on Wednesday that gross merchandise value, the total amount customers spend through its platforms, rose 13.6% on a comparable basis to €13.9 billion in the quarter. Revenue grew 22% to €4.3 billion. Delivery Hero now expects full-year merchandise value growth of 10% to 12%, up from its previous forecast of 9% to 11%.

The improved outlook reflects its effort to encourage customers to use delivery apps for more than restaurant meals. Its strategy combines food ordering with groceries and other household products, increasing the potential frequency of transactions. The company also raised its revenue growth forecast to 18% to 20% and lifted its adjusted operating earnings guidance to between €980 million and €1.02 billion.

The trading update arrives as US rival Uber pursues a takeover of Delivery Hero. Shareholders have until 5 November to accept Uber's voluntary offer of €41.50 per share. The companies remain independent pending completion, which Delivery Hero expects in the second half of 2027 if necessary approvals are secured. Beyond the acquisition, the results illustrate the changing economics of delivery platforms, where growth increasingly depends on making services useful for routine shopping rather than occasional meal orders. Customer loyalty and repeat orders will also determine which platforms succeed. Sustained profitability remains a separate test as competition and delivery costs continue to shape the sector.