Uber agrees to $14.8 billion acquisition of Delivery Hero in all-stock deal
The proposed transaction requires shareholder approval and faces regulatory scrutiny, with Delivery Hero set to divest operations in 14 markets to SSW Partners.
Uber has agreed to acquire German-based Delivery Hero in an all-stock transaction valued at $14.8 billion, a move that would significantly expand the ride-hailing giant’s presence in the global food delivery sector. The deal, which remains subject to shareholder approval and regulatory clearance, would nearly double Uber’s operational footprint to approximately 100 markets across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia.
Under the terms of the arrangement, Delivery Hero will sell its business in 14 markets, where Uber Eats is already operating, to New York-based investment firm SSW Partners for $1.6 billion. This divestment is part of the broader strategy to consolidate operations and streamline the combined entity’s market presence. Major shareholder Prosus has also agreed to sell its 17% stake in Delivery Hero as part of the transaction.
The acquisition is contingent on a minimum acceptance threshold of 50% plus one share of Delivery Hero’s outstanding share capital. Uber, which was already the largest shareholder of Delivery Hero prior to the announcement, has set this bar to ensure sufficient backing for the merger. The deal has not yet been finalised and will likely face regulatory scrutiny given its scale and the concentration of the food delivery sector outside China.
If completed, the combined company would become one of the world’s largest food delivery platforms outside China. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi stated that the move aims to scale a proven platform to compete with rivals such as DoorDash and Just Eat. Khosrowshahi noted that the integration would nearly double the number of markets where the company offers both mobility and delivery services, creating significant long-term value for customers and shareholders.
The transaction reflects a strategic push to consolidate market share in a sector dominated by a few major players. By acquiring Delivery Hero, Uber seeks to strengthen its position against competitors in key international markets. The timeline for closing the transaction has not been specified, and the deal remains subject to the successful completion of shareholder votes and regulatory approvals.
