Grolsch's Juan Pérez Nijhuis immediately admits that it could be a few years before it is really ready for customers. ‘But we are already testing, so we will be ready for it when the legislation allows it.’ Grolsch is not alone in wanting to be at the forefront of this new development. Domino's Pizza announced last week at hospitality fair Horecava that they also want to start testing at Technology Base, with pizza delivery by drones.

Ideal test location

So far, Technology Base, with drone centre Space53 and Twente Airport, is the ideal test location. Testing in inhabited areas is not yet allowed because of safety and privacy: according to Pérez Nijhuis, this will only be possible in two or three years' time, when legislation allows such pilots. Both Domino's and Grolsch will then look directly at the campus of the University of Twente: a nice compact area with residents who are likely to get very excited by flying drones carrying beer and pizza. But after that, it could be a few years before actual commercial delivery to ordinary consumers can start. Read more >

Photo: Wouter Borre, DRONExpert