DoorDash, a trailblazer in local commerce, has partnered with Wing, the world leader in residential drone delivery, to launch a cutting-edge food delivery experience in Charlotte, North Carolina. This initiative marks a major milestone in their evolving collaboration and signifies the first time Charlotte residents will have access to drone-delivered food and convenience items. With a shared mission of transforming last-mile logistics through speed, efficiency, and sustainability, the two companies are redefining what food delivery can look like in the modern era.
A New Era for Delivery in Charlotte
Starting immediately, eligible DoorDash customers within approximately a four-mile radius of The Arboretum Shopping Center in southern Charlotte can enjoy drone delivery from a curated selection of local eateries and national restaurant brands. The participating lineup features some of Charlotte’s most beloved food establishments, including Curry Junction, Matcha Cafe Maiko, Joa Korean Food, and national favorite Panera Bread. Notably, Panera Bread becomes the first national chain in Charlotte to offer drone-based delivery via DoorDash.
To celebrate the groundbreaking launch, DoorDash is offering an exclusive promotional deal: customers can enjoy a bowl of Panera Bread’s signature mac & cheese delivered by drone for just $1. This limited-time offer is available exclusively through the DoorDash app and underscores the companies’ dedication to delighting customers with both innovation and value.
Expanding a Successful Global Partnership
This Charlotte expansion builds on the momentum of an international partnership that began in 2022 when DoorDash and Wing first collaborated to introduce drone delivery in Australia. The partnership then made its way to the United States, with successful rollouts in parts of Southwest Virginia and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With Charlotte now added to the growing list of serviced cities, DoorDash and Wing aim to extend drone delivery to additional neighborhoods throughout 2025.
“Autonomous delivery is shaping the future of local logistics, and we’re proud to introduce this advanced service to Charlotte alongside Wing,” said Harrison Shih, Head of Product for DoorDash Labs. “What makes this launch especially exciting isn’t just the technology behind it—it’s the experience. Whether it’s your go-to Panera sandwich, a DashMart snack, or a local favorite matcha latte, there’s something magical about watching your order descend from the sky in just minutes. We’re not just delivering faster; we’re delivering the future.”
The Role of DoorDash Labs and Robotics Innovation
This cutting-edge partnership is the result of innovation from DoorDash Labs, the company’s in-house robotics and automation division. DoorDash Labs explores and integrates emerging autonomous technologies designed to improve customer experiences, increase order volumes for local merchants, and provide new earning opportunities for delivery partners, known as Dashers.
In addition to the Wing collaboration, DoorDash also works with Coco Robotics, which enables sidewalk robot delivery in select cities. These strategic partnerships reflect DoorDash’s commitment to developing a multi-modal logistics network that supports the fastest, most efficient, and most environmentally friendly deliveries possible.
“We’re committed to continually redefining convenience for our customers,” said Meenakshi Nagarajan, Chief Digital Officer at Panera Bread. “Partnering with DoorDash and Wing for this pilot in Charlotte gives us an opportunity to offer guests a truly modern delivery experience—fast, contactless, and innovative. It’s a perfect blend of quality and technology.”
Charlotte: A City Embracing Innovation
Charlotte is no stranger to aviation history—North Carolina proudly bears the “First in Flight” title thanks to the Wright brothers’ historic achievements. Over a century later, the state continues to play a pioneering role in aviation by embracing emerging drone technology. State and city officials have enacted forward-thinking policies that facilitate public-private partnerships like this one, making North Carolina a national leader in drone integration.
Wing first introduced commercial drone delivery in the U.S. in 2019, starting in rural Virginia. The service then expanded to major metropolitan areas like Dallas-Fort Worth. With the inclusion of Charlotte in 2025, Wing continues its mission to bring fast, safe, and reliable drone delivery to communities across the country.
“Charlotte is a city that truly understands the value of technological innovation in solving transportation challenges,” said Wing CEO Adam Woodworth. “We’re thrilled to bring our drone delivery service to the Queen City and are grateful for the warm welcome from its residents and leadership.”
More Than Just Meals: DashMart by Drone
In addition to restaurant orders, Charlotte customers can now take advantage of DashMart by Drone, a specialized version of DoorDash’s convenience store concept. This offering includes a curated selection of items such as snacks, beverages, over-the-counter medications, and other daily essentials—all delivered via drone within minutes.
To add a local flair, DoorDash has teamed up with iconic Carolina brands like Life Raft Treats, Appalachia Cookie Co., and Cheerwine. Customers can claim a limited-edition bundle featuring fan-favorite items from these brands by using promo code DMBYDRONE in the DoorDash app. This special giveaway is only available while supplies last.
How Drone Delivery Works
Getting started with drone delivery is simple for eligible residents. When browsing the DoorDash app, users will see a “Drone” icon on the homepage. Tapping this will take them to a selection of restaurants and items eligible for drone delivery.
After placing an order, customers whose selected items fall within specific size and weight requirements will be able to choose drone delivery at checkout. They’ll then receive real-time tracking updates as the drone approaches, offering a smooth and exciting delivery experience from start to finish.
Charlotte residents can verify their eligibility by visitingThose who are currently outside the delivery zone can join a waitlist to be notified when the service expands to their area.
Proven Performance and Local Impact
Since the inception of their partnership, Wing and DoorDash have completed tens of thousands of successful drone deliveries. The addition of Charlotte represents the latest evolution of a scalable delivery system designed to meet growing consumer demand for speed, convenience, and innovation.
“We’ve proudly owned and operated The Arboretum Shopping Center for over three decades,” said Paul Herndon, President of American Asset Corporation. “We’re honored to be the location for North Carolina’s first Wing and DoorDash drone delivery operation—it’s a moment of history and progress.”
Disclaimers:
- Panera Bread drone deliveries are currently available only at 3207 Pineville-Matthews Road, Charlotte, NC 28226.
- The $1 mac & cheese offer is valid through May 28, 2025, or while supplies last. Offer excludes bread bowls and is limited to one per customer. Taxes and fees apply.
- The DashMart by Drone promotional bundle is valid through May 15, 2025, or until 250 redemptions are claimed. Only valid in Charlotte. Promo code DMBYDRONE required.
As DoorDash and Wing continue to push the boundaries of delivery technology, Charlotte’s inclusion marks a pivotal step toward a future where drone delivery becomes not just a novelty, but an everyday convenience.
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