Zomato Launches Vending Machines for Rapid Food Delivery in Gurugram

New Delhi, India Aug 21, 2026 ALN: Eternal-owned foodtech platform Zomato has recently ventured into the rapid food delivery sector with the launch of its vending machines, known as ‘Zomato Now’. These machines are strategically installed in corporate offices across Gurugram, in collaboration with various restaurants. This initiative represents a significant innovation in the food delivery landscape, combining technology with consumer convenience.

According to sources familiar with the initiative, Zomato is currently piloting these food pods at select corporate locations. The vending machines are designed to provide quick access to a variety of meals, allowing employees to grab food on the go without waiting for traditional delivery methods. This innovative approach marks a shift in Zomato's strategy, as it aims to bring food closer to consumers rather than solely focusing on enhancing delivery speed. The introduction of vending machines could potentially reshape how employees at corporate offices view meal accessibility during their workday.

The launch of Zomato Now comes at a critical time for the food delivery industry, which has been experiencing rapid changes in consumer behavior and preferences. As the food delivery landscape evolves, Zomato's new initiative aligns with a growing trend of on-demand services that prioritize convenience and immediacy. This development is particularly relevant given that restaurants have been expressing dissatisfaction with platforms like Zomato and Swiggy due to rising promotional fees and other charges. By partnering with restaurants for its vending machine segment, Zomato hopes to mend its relationship with these stakeholders, potentially creating a win-win situation where restaurants can reach more customers while Zomato diversifies its service offerings.

This initiative follows Zomato's recent efforts to diversify its offerings, including models like Zomato Instant, Everyday, and Ritual. These models have been introduced to cater to different consumer needs and preferences, expanding Zomato's reach beyond traditional food delivery. The flagship food delivery service under Eternal has transitioned from being a core growth engine to a key profit generator for the company. This shift indicates a strategic pivot where Zomato is not only focused on growth but also on sustaining profitability amidst increasing competition.

While Zomato's rival, Blinkit, contributes significantly more revenue, Zomato's food delivery segment reported an adjusted EBITDA of ₹606 Cr in Q1 FY27, compared to Blinkit’s ₹102 Cr. This highlights the competitive landscape in which Zomato operates, where both companies are vying for market share in a rapidly evolving sector. The food delivery business has shown consistent growth, achieving an operating profit of ₹621 Cr, with revenues climbing 37% year-on-year to ₹3,100 Cr. Such figures underscore the resilience of Zomato's business model, even as it navigates the challenges posed by its competitors.

The profitability of Zomato's operations is largely driven by restaurant commissions, platform fees, and subscription services like Zomato Gold. In Q1 FY27, platform fees alone accounted for ₹154 Cr, reflecting the company's ability to monetize its platform effectively. However, the company continues to face challenges from rising delivery costs, customer acquisition expenses, and regulatory pressures. These factors could impact Zomato's profitability in the long run, necessitating ongoing innovation and adaptation to market conditions.

As Eternal invests heavily in Blinkit and other ventures, Zomato’s established and increasingly profitable operations provide a financial cushion. The diversification of services and the introduction of new delivery models like Zomato Now may serve as a buffer against potential downturns in the food delivery market. In the first quarter of FY27, Eternal reported a consolidated net profit of ₹92 Cr, a significant increase from ₹25 Cr in the same quarter last year. Operating revenue surged by 182% year-on-year to ₹20,211 Cr, highlighting the overall growth trajectory of the parent company and its subsidiaries.

In the stock market, shares of Eternal closed the trading session at ₹327.60 each on the BSE. This reflects investor confidence in the company's strategy and its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics. As Zomato continues to innovate and explore new avenues for growth, the implications of its vending machine initiative could extend beyond just immediate sales. It may set a precedent for other food delivery companies to explore similar models, potentially leading to a transformation in how food is delivered and consumed in urban environments.

In conclusion, Zomato's introduction of vending machines for rapid food delivery represents a bold step into a new frontier of food service. By focusing on convenience and accessibility, Zomato aims to enhance the dining experience for consumers while also addressing the concerns of restaurant partners. As the company navigates the complexities of the food delivery market, its ability to innovate and respond to stakeholder needs will be crucial for sustaining its competitive edge and profitability in the long term.