With the Covid-19 pandemic making grocery delivery services more popular, a new on-demand app is looking to break further into the North American market with a local launch.
Santiago, Chile-based on-demand delivery app and service startup Cornershop is making its first appearance in the U.S. with a launch in Dallas, including parts of the northern suburbs, as well as Miami.
“Consumers across the nation are looking for reliable and convenient shopping options now more than ever,” said David Krevat, Cornershop’s Florida regional general manager, in a prepared statement. “Our goal is to connect them with the stores they love most.”
Cornershop was launched in 2015 by co-founders Daniel Undurraga, Juan Pablo Cuevas and Oskar Hjertonsson. The startup has raised a total of $31.7 million, according to Crunchbase, most recently with a $21 million Series B led by Accel. Jackson Square Ventures, Creandum and ALLVP joined that 2017 round.
The company distinguishes itself from other on-demand delivery services in that it offers pickup from both large chains and specialty, local brick-and-mortar shops. The app also offers scheduled and contactless delivery options.
The U.S. expansion, which brings gig employment opportunities with it, comes as Cornershop also grows its operations into Brazil. The startup also operates in Chile, Mexico, Peru, Colombia and Canada. As part of its Dallas expansion, Cornershop is offering app users a $20 discount on orders of more than $50, with the code TRYTODAY.
Last year, Uber announced plans to acquire Cornershop in a $459 million deal, according to the news website Contxto. However, that deal has been held up by Mexico’s antitrust regulatory organization. The startup had similar issues, when the agency blocked a planned acquisition of Cornershop by Walmart in Jun 2019.
“This outstanding network of individuals is committed to delivering top quality and service,” Krevat said in a prepared statement. “We are thrilled to be part of these two vibrant cities and look forward to adding more in the months to come.”
