"The absence of a clear national policy framework for commercial drone delivery means there is currently no defined pathway for the sector to scale in Ireland.

"In the absence of such a framework, decisions are assessed locally, creating uncertainty around the planning and infrastructure requirements needed to support commercial drone delivery at scale," the company said.

"At the same time, the United States, United Kingdom, China and the UAE are demonstrating rapid regulatory progress and strong commercial momentum. As a result, Manna has decided to concentrate its investment, talent and operational resources in markets where large-scale drone delivery is now a reality."

The company said it has received operational authorisation in both the US and UK, and anticipates full authorisation to operate in the UAE this year.

'Strategic pause'

Manna stressed that the move represented a strategic pause rather than a permanent withdrawal of delivery operations from Ireland, adding that it remains confident that drone delivery can play "an important role in strengthening communities."

Manna has launched operations across Cork, Moneygall, Oranmore, Balbriggan and Blanchardstown, and has expanded internationally to Helsinki and Texas. 

Over that period, the company says it has completed more than 300,000 deliveries and partnered with over 120 businesses. The group currently employs 200 people, with staff being informed on Friday of the strategic pause in drone deliveries. 

“This is a difficult decision because Ireland is where Manna was founded, built and first proven,” said Bobby Healy, founder and CEO of Manna. “We are incredibly grateful to the communities, businesses, customers and employees who helped show that drone delivery can work at scale.

"However, in the absence of a clear national pathway to scale commercial drone delivery, we have to focus our investment in markets where that pathway is now clear.” 

Manna said customers in affected areas will be notified directly through the Manna app and by email. Manna will work with local business partners to complete the cessation of Irish delivery operations in an orderly manner.

More to follow...