Did you know the first recorded food delivery didn’t involve pizza? Back in 1763, Korea made history with the first instance of delivering cold buckwheat noodles in soup. This surprising origin set the stage for the global phenomenon we know today.
The digital revolution in food delivery began in the mid-1990s. Pizza Hut’s Pizzanet and Waiter.com were among the pioneers leading the digital shift in food delivery, paving the way for modern online ordering systems.
In the next decade, the 2010s saw the rise of meal kits and ready-to-eat meal delivery services, catering to consumers seeking convenience and quality. These services combined the ease of delivery with the appeal of quality meals, appealing to those looking to save time and achieve fitness goals or manage health conditions. Overall, the food delivery industry has undergone a remarkable transformation from its early beginnings to the present day.
The Future of Food Delivery in Saudi Arabia
The KSA food delivery market, worth US $10 billion in 2023, is expected to hit $14.9 billion by 2028, with food-delivery startups playing a central role in driving that growth, capitalizing on shifting consumer needs. These startups snagged 45% of the $600 million raised by KSA's Foodtech sector, marking a transformative shift in dining experiences and highlighting their pivotal role in Saudi Arabia's evolving food landscape.