Uber (UBER) plans to launch food delivery services in seven new European markets during 2026, signaling aggressive expansion as competition intensifies in the delivery sector.
The move underscores the San Francisco-based company’s commitment to growing its higher-margin delivery business, which has become increasingly important to overall profitability as ride-hailing growth moderates.
Key Takeaways
- Uber expanding delivery to seven European countries in 2026
- Austria, Denmark, Finland, Norway among targeted markets
- Move reflects intensifying competition in European food delivery
Market Context and Strategic Rationale
According to the Financial Times report, Uber will launch services in markets including Austria, Denmark, Finland and Norway during 2026 1. The expansion comes as technology groups ramp up their efforts in the competitive European food delivery landscape.
Uber’s delivery segment has emerged as a key growth driver, generating higher margins than its core ride-hailing business. The company’s international expansion strategy aims to capture market share before local competitors establish dominant positions in these Nordic and Central European markets.
Competitive Landscape Intensifies
The announcement follows Uber’s recent strategic moves in the delivery space, including a significant investment to strengthen its European presence. The company has been competing against established players like Deliveroo, Just Eat Takeaway, and various regional operators across European markets.
Food delivery penetration remains lower in some European markets compared to the US and UK, presenting growth opportunities for platforms willing to invest in market development. Uber’s established technology infrastructure and operational expertise position it to scale quickly in new territories.
Financial Implications
The expansion represents continued capital allocation toward Uber’s delivery business, which has shown resilience even as pandemic-driven ordering patterns normalized. Delivery services typically require significant upfront marketing and promotional spending to build consumer habits and restaurant partnerships.
Investors have generally rewarded Uber’s focus on higher-margin segments, though international expansion carries execution risks and competitive pressures that could impact near-term profitability in these new markets.
Strategic Outlook
The seven-market expansion demonstrates Uber’s confidence in its delivery platform’s scalability and its commitment to building a comprehensive European presence. Success in these markets could provide a foundation for further regional expansion and strengthen Uber’s negotiating position with restaurant partners.
Uber did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the expansion plans, according to Reuters 2. The company is expected to provide more details on timing and investment levels in upcoming earnings calls or investor updates.
Not investment advice. For informational purposes only.
References
1“Uber enters 7 new European markets in food delivery push”. Financial Times. Retrieved February 15, 2026.
2“Uber expands into 7 new European markets in food-delivery push”. Reuters. Retrieved February 15, 2026.
3“Uber enters 7 new European markets in food-delivery push, FT reports”. MarketScreener. Retrieved February 15, 2026.
4“Uber Expands Into 7 New European Markets in Food-Delivery Push”. Ground News. Retrieved February 15, 2026.
5“Uber enters 7 new European markets in food-delivery push, FT reports”. Channel News Asia. Retrieved February 15, 2026.