Walmart invests in DroneUp

Walmart is investing in DroneUp, a drove services provider. 

This news follows a successful trial launched last year that delivered at-home COVID-19 self-collection kits.

“In our ongoing effort to get customers the items they want, and fast, we know it will take a well-coordinated network of delivery solutions that span the streets, sidewalks and skies. Some of these solutions are still emerging, but they’re already showing encouraging results,” said John Furner, Walmart U.S. president and CEO. 

[Related Content: Walmart piloting drone delivery of home COVID-19 tests]

DroneUp operates an on-demand drone delivery network that matches their database of more than 10,000 Federal Aviation Administration certified pilots to missions nationwide.

“Since partnering with DroneUp last year, we’ve valued their technological expertise, world-class operations and experienced management team — and their commitment to helping the FAA ensure the highest levels of safety with every delivery,” Furner said.

“As a well-respected industry innovator, DroneUp was the first operator to use the FAA 107.39 waiver, an operation that allows for delivery flights to be conducted over people and moving vehicles," he said. "DroneUp operates commercially throughout the United States and is an authorized government drone services provider for 11 U.S. states serving public sector organizations.”