Introduction
Glovo is a Spain-based on demand delivery app founded in 2014 by Oscar Pierre and officially launched in 2015 with co-founder Sacha Michaud. The platform quickly gained popularity for its unique approach to multi-category delivery, offering food, groceries, courier services, and more. Since mid-2022, Glovo has been part of the Delivery Hero Group, a leading German-based global food delivery company.
Currently, the Glovo app operates in 20+ countries, providing seamless and fast delivery services through its feature-rich mobile app. The app connects users with couriers who can pick up and deliver anything within a city, making it one of the top choices for on-demand delivery solutions.
If you’re looking for an on demand app development, this guide will walk you through the essential steps, features, and technologies required to build a competitive and scalable platform.
Business Model of Glovo App
Glovo operates on an on-demand delivery marketplace model, connecting customers, couriers, and businesses through its platform. It follows a multi-sided revenue approach, earning from delivery fees, commissions, and premium subscriptions.
1. Customer Segment
Glovo caters to various user groups:
Consumers – Individuals ordering food, groceries, pharmaceuticals, and other goods.
Businesses – Restaurants, grocery stores, and retail shops partnering with Glovo for deliveries.
Couriers (Glovers) – Independent delivery personnel fulfilling orders.
2. Revenue Streams
Glovo generates income through multiple channels:
Delivery Fees – Customers pay a delivery charge based on distance and demand.
Commission from Partners – Restaurants and stores pay a percentage (15-30%) per order.
Glovo Prime Subscription – Monthly fee for free deliveries on eligible orders.
Advertising & Promotions – Businesses pay for better visibility on the platform.
3. Key Features of the Model
On-Demand Delivery – Fast, real-time tracking of orders.
Multi-Category Services – Food, groceries, pharmacy, and parcel deliveries.
AI-Powered Logistics – Optimized delivery routes for efficiency.
Cashless Transactions – Multiple payment options for seamless checkout.
4. Logistics & Operations
Glovo does not own delivery fleets but instead relies on freelance couriers (gig economy model). These couriers use bicycles, scooters, or motorcycles to fulfill orders quickly, ensuring low operational costs and scalability.
Developing an app like Glovo requires essential features that ensure seamless operations, user convenience, and efficient deliveries. A well-structured on-demand delivery app consists of three key panels: User Panel, Delivery Partner Panel, and Admin Panel.
Features of Glovo-Like App Development
User Panel Features
Easy Registration & Login – Users can sign up via email, phone number, or social media.
Smart Search & Categories – Browse restaurants, grocery stores, and retail shops effortlessly.
Real-Time Order Tracking – Live GPS tracking for better transparency.
Multiple Payment Options – Secure payments through credit/debit cards, wallets, and UPI.
Schedule Orders – Users can place immediate or scheduled deliveries.
Order History & Reordering – Quick access to past orders for a seamless experience.
Ratings & Reviews – Feedback system for better service improvement.
Delivery Partner Panel Features
Registration & Profile Management – Verification process for delivery agents.
Order Notifications – Real-time alerts for new delivery requests.
Route Optimization – AI-powered navigation for faster deliveries.
Earnings & Performance Reports – Weekly/monthly income tracking.
Availability Status – Option to go online/offline based on availability.
Admin Panel Features
User & Partner Management – Control over customer and merchant data.
Order & Payment Management – Track orders, transactions, and refunds.
Analytics & Reports – Insights on sales, customer behavior, and market trends.
Promotions & Discounts – Manage offers and loyalty programs.
Delivery Partner Support – Resolve queries and ensure smooth operations.
Steps Involved in the Success of On Demand Delivery App
Developing a delivery app like Glovo requires a strategic approach, ensuring smooth user experience, seamless delivery operations, and a competitive market presence. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a successful on demand delivery app.
Market Research & Planning
The foundation of a successful on demand delivery app starts with thorough market research. Understanding user preferences, competitor strategies, and emerging trends helps in creating a unique value proposition. Identifying the target audience and analyzing the demand for services like food, grocery, and parcel delivery ensures better market penetration.
Define App Features & Business Model
A delivery app like Glovo must have a well-structured business model, whether commission-based, subscription-based, or hybrid. Essential features include user registration, real-time tracking, multiple payment options, and seamless order management. Additionally, a well-defined pricing strategy for customers and partner businesses plays a crucial role in revenue generation.
Choose the Right Technology Stack
Selecting the right technology stack ensures the app’s scalability and performance. Technologies like React Native or Flutter for mobile app development, Node.js or Django for backend, and Google Maps API for real-time tracking enhance functionality. A cloud-based infrastructure helps manage a high volume of transactions efficiently.
UI/UX Design
User-friendly design plays a crucial role in retaining users. A visually appealing and intuitive interface ensures smooth navigation for customers, delivery personnel, and business partners. Minimal clicks for order placement, engaging design elements, and responsive layouts improve user experience.
Development & Integration
The development phase involves building the frontend, backend, and database. Key integrations include payment gateways, GPS tracking, push notifications, and AI-based recommendations. A robust admin panel helps manage orders, monitor deliveries, and optimize overall operations.
Testing & Quality Assurance
A delivery app like Glovo requires rigorous testing before launch. Functional, security, and performance testing ensures the app runs smoothly under different conditions. Testing across multiple devices helps eliminate bugs and enhance reliability.
Deployment & Launch
Once the app is fully tested, it is deployed on platforms like the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Compliance with platform guidelines and data security policies ensures a smooth launch.
Marketing & User Acquisition
A well-planned marketing strategy helps attract users and businesses. SEO, PPC campaigns, referral programs, and social media marketing boost brand awareness. Partnering with restaurants and stores enhances service offerings.
Continuous Updates & Support
Regular updates based on user feedback improve the app’s performance and user experience. Adding new features, fixing bugs, and enhancing security keep the app competitive in the growing market.
Building a delivery app like Glovo requires innovation, reliability, and a customer-centric approach to ensure long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Glovo app, and how does it work?
Glovo is an on-demand delivery service that allows users to order food, groceries, and other products from local stores and restaurants through a mobile application. Users can place orders and track their delivery in real-time, while couriers pick up and deliver the items to the specified location.
2. What features should I include in a Glovo like app?
To develop an app similar to Glovo, consider incorporating the following key features:
- User Registration and Profiles: Allow users to create accounts and manage their profiles.
- Order Management: Enable users to browse products, add them to a cart, and place orders seamlessly.
- Real-time Tracking: Provide users with live tracking of their orders via GPS.
- Payment Integration: Implement secure payment gateways for various payment methods.
- Rating and Reviews: Allow users to rate their delivery experience and provide feedback.
- Admin Dashboard: Include a backend system for managing orders, users, and couriers efficiently.
3. How much does it cost to develop an app like Glovo?
The cost of developing an app like Glovo can vary widely based on several factors, including the complexity of features, the technology stack, and the development team’s location. Typically, it can range from $30,000 to over $70,000. It’s essential to conduct a detailed analysis and plan your budget accordingly.
4. How long does it take to develop an app like Glovo?
The timeline for developing an app similar to Glovo can range from 6 to 12 months, depending on the app’s complexity, feature set, and the development methodology used. Proper planning and project management can help streamline the development process.
5. How can I ensure my Glovo-like app is successful?
To ensure the success of your app, consider the following strategies:
- Market Research: Understand your target audience and competitors.
- User Experience (UX): Focus on creating an intuitive and user-friendly interface.
- Marketing Strategy: Develop a solid marketing plan to promote your app and attract users.
- Feedback Loop: Implement a system for gathering user feedback to continuously improve the app.
- Scalability: Build the app with scalability in mind to accommodate future growth and additional features.
Related Resource: Profitable On-Demand App Ideas in 2025
For more information on developing an app like Glovo, feel free to reach out to our expert team at: [email protected].
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