In the bustling streets of China, Meituan has transformed urban logistics with its innovative use of drones and e-scooters. The company, which began as a group discount platform, has evolved into a comprehensive service provider, catering to millions of users. Over the past year, Meituan reported 770 million users and 14.5 million active merchants, with an average of 3.36 million delivery personnel active monthly. On July 12, 2025, the company achieved a record-breaking 150 million daily orders for online shopping, and the average monthly income of frequent delivery personnel increased by 12% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the end of 2024, reaching 7,230-10,100 RMB (US$ 1,018-1,422).
Meituan’s growth is closely tied to China’s economic development and technological advancements. The company integrates technology into daily life, aiming to ‘help people eat better and live better.’ Beyond food delivery, Meituan offers services such as hotel and flight bookings, tourist trips, fresh produce delivery, and daily necessities. Users can also arrange cleaning services, bike and car rentals, movie tickets, and more through the platform.
While Meituan dominates the Chinese market, it is also expanding internationally. In May 2023, it launched the meal delivery brand Keeta in Hong Kong as a test site for global expansion. By August 2024, Meituan decided to continue its food delivery operations under the Keeta brand, which is now active in markets like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Brazil, officially starting in Santos and São Vicente in October 2025.
Drone deliveries have become a staple of Meituan’s logistics operations. High above the city, small drones swiftly and silently navigate to their destinations, sometimes bypassing heavy traffic and narrow streets. This adds a futuristic element to the already dynamic urban landscape, highlighting the fusion of technology and city life.
Despite its success, Meituan faces challenges, including concerns over delivery personnel’s working conditions and increasing regulations in China to better govern the sector. For many in China, Meituan’s yellow color has become a familiar and recognizable symbol, deeply intertwined with daily life.