How JOKR is Trying to Reinvent Ultrafast Grocery Delivery
The vertically integrated service relies on local sourcing and full-time employees instead of gig workers. Is that enough?
Over the past year, ultrafast grocery delivery startups like Getir, GoPuff, and JOKR have raised billions of dollars. Mini-fulfillment centers have mushroomed across cities in Europe, Latin America, and the US. Below, a look at JOKR and the challenges of ultrafast delivery business models.
7-Eleven Meets Toyota Production System
Have you ever wanted a pint of ice cream, but not wanted to put on pants? No need to worry, JOKR has your back. JOKR is an instant delivery startup based in New York and operating throughout the Americas. Launched in March 2021 by Ralf Wenzel, a serial entrepreneur who founded and ran FoodPanda and later served as Chief Strategy Officer of Delivery Hero, JOKR aims to replace supermarkets by offering speedy delivery of groceries and convenience items. That’s a tall order.
JOKR’s fundraising has been as fast as its delivery. The company raised a $170 million Series A in July 2021 in a deal led by Balderton, GGV Capital, and Tiger Global. Lightning struck again in December 2021, with a $260 million Series B valuing JOKR at…
