Platform Comparison
Each platform has different strengths. Most successful dark kitchens use all three and optimise based on order data.
Deliveroo
Strengths
- Premium customer base
- Best for higher-priced items
- Editions (dark kitchen hubs)
- Strong in London & major cities
Weaknesses
- Highest commission rates
- Strict quality requirements
- Competitive to get listed
Uber Eats
Strengths
- Global brand recognition
- Large customer base
- Good suburban coverage
- Uber One membership drives orders
Weaknesses
- Variable service quality
- Customer support issues
- High competition
Just Eat
Strengths
- Lowest commission rates
- Largest UK customer base
- Strong outside London
- Good for value brands
Weaknesses
- Older customer demographic
- Less premium positioning
- Website feels dated
Commission Rates Compared
Rates vary by contract type and volume. These are typical ranges for new partners.
| Platform | Standard | Reduced* | Pickup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deliveroo | 35% | 25% | 15% |
| Uber Eats | 30% | 15% | |
| Just Eat | 25% | N/A |
*Reduced rates: Deliveroo Editions, Uber Eats Lite (no marketing), Just Eat Connect (order-only)
Multi-Platform Integration Tips
Running on multiple platforms requires good systems. Here's how successful dark kitchens manage it.
Multi-Platform Strategy
List on all three platforms initially, then optimise based on order data after 3 months
Menu Engineering
Create platform-specific menus - premium options for Deliveroo, value meals for Just Eat
Tablet Management
Use aggregator tools like Deliverect or Otter to manage all orders from one screen
Delivery Radius
Start with 2-3 mile radius, expand based on order times and food quality feedback
Order Aggregator Tools
Managing three tablets is chaotic. Aggregator tools consolidate all orders into one screen and can integrate directly with your POS system.
Deliverect
- All platforms on one tablet
- POS integration (Lightspeed, Square, etc.)
- Menu sync across platforms
- From £79/month
Otter (by Uber)
- Unified order management
- Analytics and reporting
- Auto-pause when busy
- From £50/month
Recommended Strategy by Stage
Month 1-3: Launch Phase
- • List on all three platforms to maximise discovery
- • Keep menus simple (10-15 items) to manage operations
- • Use platform promotions (free delivery, discounts) to build reviews
- • Track order volumes, prep times, and ratings by platform
Month 4-6: Optimisation Phase
- • Analyse which platform drives most profit (not just volume)
- • Invest in aggregator tool if managing 100+ orders/week
- • Tailor menus to platform demographics
- • Negotiate rates based on your volume data
Month 6+: Scale Phase
- • Consider dropping low-performing platforms
- • Launch additional virtual brands on winning platforms
- • Build direct ordering channel to reduce platform dependency
- • Explore Deliveroo Editions for expansion
Sarah Chen
Commercial Kitchen Consultant & Former Head Chef
Sarah Chen brings over 12 years of experience in commercial kitchen operations, having worked as Head Chef at multiple London restaurants before transitioning to kitchen consultancy. She specializes in helping food entrepreneurs optimize their kitchen setups and navigate commercial kitchen regulations.
Areas of Expertise
Credentials
- Level 4 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate
- Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH)
- Former Head Chef at Michelin-rated restaurant
- 12+ years commercial kitchen experience
Delivery Platform FAQs
What are the best delivery platforms for dark kitchens in the UK?
The three major UK delivery platforms are Deliveroo (35% market share, premium positioning), Uber Eats (30% share, global reach), and Just Eat (35% share, lowest commissions). Most successful dark kitchens list on all three platforms and optimise based on order data. Deliveroo Editions offers purpose-built dark kitchen spaces in major cities.
How much commission do delivery platforms charge?
Commission rates vary: Just Eat charges 14-25% (lowest), Uber Eats charges 20-30%, and Deliveroo charges 25-35% (highest but premium customers). Rates depend on your contract, pickup options, and marketing commitments. Collection/pickup orders typically incur 14-15% commission across all platforms.
Can I use multiple delivery platforms from one dark kitchen?
Yes, most dark kitchens use all three major platforms (Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Just Eat). Use aggregator tools like Deliverect, Otter, or Hubrise to manage orders from all platforms on one tablet. This typically costs £50-150/month but significantly improves efficiency.
How do I get listed on Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat?
Apply through each platform's restaurant partner website. You'll need: food business registration, food hygiene rating (ideally 4+), public liability insurance, and a commercial kitchen address. Application typically takes 1-3 weeks. Deliveroo is most selective; Just Eat is most accessible.
Which delivery platform has the highest order value?
Deliveroo typically has the highest average order value (£22-28), followed by Uber Eats (£18-24), then Just Eat (£16-22). Deliveroo attracts more premium customers willing to pay higher prices. Consider this when setting your pricing strategy for each platform.
What is Deliveroo Editions?
Deliveroo Editions are purpose-built dark kitchen hubs operated by Deliveroo in high-demand areas. You rent a space (typically £1,500-3,500/month) and get prime positioning in the app, marketing support, and prime delivery coverage. Available in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and expanding to other cities.
How do I reduce delivery platform commission fees?
Negotiate based on volume (500+ orders/month), offer collection/pickup options (14-15% commission vs 25-35%), use platform marketing tools for preferential rates, and consider platform-specific lite plans with lower marketing features. Building direct ordering capability can also offset platform fees.
Should I have different menus on different platforms?
Yes, menu engineering by platform is recommended. Deliveroo customers accept higher prices, so emphasise premium items. Just Eat customers are more value-conscious, so highlight meal deals. Uber Eats sits in the middle. Track performance by platform and adjust accordingly.