Deliveroo launches 'no-contact' delivery service due to coronavirus

As cases continue to rise across the country and around the world, more and more businesses have revealed their contingency plans to keep services running.

In a letter to users of the app, Will Shu, CEO of Deliveroo, said: "My absolute number one priority is the safety of customers, riders and restaurants, no matter what happens.

"There’s a lot we still don’t know about Coronavirus, but health authorities have been clear that maintaining good hygiene is absolutely critical.

"Customers have always had access to restaurant hygiene ratings on the Deliveroo app, but now we’re going one step further.

"As well as providing restaurants with additional packaging and stickers to seal the delivery bags, we’re also launching a no-contact drop-off service which will mean you can request in the app that your rider leaves the food on your doorstep - removing the need for direct contact for both parties."

WORKER: The delivery service has also extended its offering to local shops and supermarkets for household supplies. Picture: Deliveroo

Delivery service extended to shops and supermarkets

Will added: "We know that people’s day-to-day lives are disrupted right now because of Coronavirus, and we’re working hard to ensure we provide the best service to you during this period.

"As well as food from restaurants and takeaways, you can also order kitchen and household products from local stores and supermarkets on the Deliveroo app, making every day life that much easier."

The company also revealed that a fund has been launched to support any riders who are diagnosed with coronavirus and are unable to work.

PLANS: Will Shu, CEO of Deliveroo, has unveiled a series of new measures as the company tackles the threat of coronavirus. Picture: Deliveroo

"As well as supporting our riders, we are sending frequent updates to our restaurant partners to share advice with them on what they can do to ensure food is prepared safely and packaged correctly for delivery.

"We’re also actively working with Public Health England to seek regular advice so we can prepare for any outcome as the situation evolves.

"Throughout this time, we’ll be relentlessly focussed on doing everything we can to support the restaurants and riders working with us, and to bring safe deliveries from the best restaurants across the country," Will continued.