Wolt, the innovative technology company focused on local commerce, proudly marked its 10th anniversary by releasing an extensive impact report detailing its substantial economic contributions over the past decade. This report, titled “A Decade Delivered,” was developed in partnership with Copenhagen Economics and presents staggering figures that showcase Wolt’s influence across 1,000 cities in 28 countries. The total economic activity attributed to Wolt amounts to an impressive EUR €19 billion, encompassing courier earnings, merchant sales, and the ripple effects of these transactions.
Miki Kuusi, Wolt’s Co-Founder and CEO, reflected on the company’s journey, expressing deep gratitude towards partners, customers, and teams at Wolt and its parent company, DoorDash. He emphasized the significance of the collaborative spirit that has propelled Wolt from a simple food delivery service to a comprehensive local commerce platform. Kuusi stated, “It’s been incredible to grow Wolt together into a true local commerce platform, helping businesses thrive and creating new earning opportunities in neighborhoods across the world.” This acknowledgment underlines the central ethos of Wolt: to support and uplift local economies.
The statistics presented in the report are striking. Since its inception, Wolt has generated a remarkable EUR €15 billion in sales for local merchants, supporting over 450,000 couriers who have benefitted from flexible income opportunities worth an estimated EUR €3 billion. This demonstrates Wolt’s critical role in empowering individuals and businesses alike. In addition to food deliveries, Wolt has diversified its offerings, with non-restaurant orders now constituting 20% of its total business. Notably, grocery deliveries have emerged as a significant revenue stream, accounting for EUR €1 billion in annual sales.
The testimonials from business leaders provide compelling illustrations of Wolt’s impact on local enterprises. A representative from a Japanese restaurant chain in Finland described Wolt as a transformative force, especially during challenging times such as the pandemic. Many small businesses faced unprecedented difficulties, and the platform helped bring customers closer to restaurants that were struggling to operate at full capacity. The chain’s turnover reportedly doubled, demonstrating the vital nature of Wolt’s services in maintaining economic stability for small businesses.
In addition to financial contributions, the report details significant milestones achieved by Wolt. The company notes that it has sold over 130 million burgers, further highlighting its role in the food delivery realm. One notable delivery stood out: a transaction valued at EUR €8,559 that included premium tech equipment, showcasing the platform’s versatility and capacity to handle high-value orders. Such accomplishments not only reflect operational success but also underline the trust consumers place in Wolt for a broad range of delivery needs.
Technological advancements have played a pivotal role in Wolt’s growth trajectory. The introduction of the Wolt+ membership programme, designed to enhance customer loyalty by providing zero delivery fees and exclusive discounts, has been a game changer. Since its launch in 2021, the programme has attracted one million subscribers, resulting in collective savings exceeding EUR €200 million for members. This membership initiative illustrates Wolt’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and driving repeat business.
Investment from various venture capital firms has further solidified Wolt’s expansion efforts. The acquisition by DoorDash in 2022 expanded its operational footprint across more than 30 countries, enabling greater resource sharing and operational synergies. Such strategic moves underscore the increasing importance of collaboration in today’s competitive landscape, positioning Wolt favorably for sustained growth.
In closing, Wolt’s 10-year milestone not only underscores its significant economic impact but also highlights the company’s resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing market. As Wolt navigates its next chapter, its focus on innovation and community support will likely remain at the forefront. For businesses considering partnerships with delivery platforms, Wolt’s success story serves as a powerful testament to the potential benefits of local commerce platforms in driving both revenue and community engagement.
