Delivery service bids farewell, ending its operations involving gorillas
In a surprising turn of events, the popular delivery service Gorillas, based in Dresden, has announced that it is ceasing operations. The news was shared with customers through the company's app.
Gorillas, known for its grocery delivery services, had particularly thrived during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a convenient solution for many during the lockdown periods. However, it seems the post-pandemic slowdown and intense competition have taken a toll on the express food delivery sector.
The company was acquired by the Turkish food delivery service Getir last year. While Gorillas continues to operate under Getir’s umbrella, it has faced the broader challenges impacting the sector. Although there are no detailed public disclosures about recent Gorillas job cuts, the industry as a whole is undergoing consolidation and cost-cutting measures.
Getir itself is reported to be in talks to acquire another competitor, Flink, indicating ongoing consolidation in the quick commerce space. This consolidation may affect Gorillas’ future integration and operations in Germany and other markets.
The decision to cease operations was not explicitly stated in the app announcement, and the reasons behind it remain unclear. In August, Gorillas announced plans to cut 2,500 jobs, which could potentially be a contributing factor.
As the industry navigates an ongoing phase of restructuring, including job cuts and acquisitions, Gorillas remains part of Getir’s portfolio. The future plans for Gorillas likely involve further integration with Getir’s logistics and service offerings, aiming to achieve profitability and operational efficiency.
This pattern of quick commerce companies adjusting scale and structure to survive after the pandemic-driven growth surge subsides is becoming increasingly common. It's a challenging time for the sector, but with consolidation and strategic adjustments, companies like Gorillas and Getir are striving to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing market landscape.
[1] Source: TechCrunch, 28th October 2022. Link: https://techcrunch.com/2022/10/28/getir-is-said-to-be-in-talks-to-acquire-flink-as-it-looks-to-consolidate-the-german-quick-commerce-market/
