Deliveroo launches in Kuwait amid stock market flotation rumours

Deliveroo is expanding its takeaway network to Kuwait, in a move which will see the fast-growing company enter its 14th market amid whispers of an impending IPO.

The food delivery service is to partner with more than 900 restaurants in the Middle East country and plans to create work for as many as 500 people in the first year.

It follows Deliveroo’s launch in Taiwan last October, as the group strengthens its presence outside Europe.

In addition to its presence in the UK and mainland Europe, the British start-up also operates in Hong Kong, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and Australia.

Deliveroo founder and boss Will Shu said: “Kuwait is a really exciting market with a vibrant local food scene. We’ll bring our expertise and our innovation to Kuwait to ensure that people have access to the best price, selection and service with Deliveroo.”

The company has hired Seham ALHusaini as general manager for Kuwait.

She said: “Launching Deliveroo in Kuwait is incredibly exciting.

“We have an amazing food culture and we can’t wait to bring the people of Kuwait City their favourite food. We will support our restaurant partners by ensuring they have the best global delivery partner.”

It comes as the firm attracts growing speculation that it is moving closer to a stock market flotation.

In November last year it was reported that the company was raising new funds with a targeted valuation of as much as 4 billion US dollars (£3.1 billion). This would provide the company with additional runway in the lead-up to a possible IPO in 2020.

Rumours that it could merge with Uber Eats have also circulated, putting further pressure on rival Just Eat.