Deliveroo launches new sustainable takeaway box for food delivery

Deliveroo has introduced a redesigned food delivery box featuring a new locking mechanism developed by apprenticeship students from Sheffield Hallam University.

The packaging was added to Deliveroo’s online packaging store last week and is the outcome of a collaboration between Deliveroo, packaging manufacturer Biopak, and Sheffield Hallam University. The project originated from Deliveroo’s Sustainable Packaging Challenge, first held in 2024.

The initiative invited students enrolled on the Professional Packaging BSc apprenticeship programme to develop a packaging concept that addressed common food delivery issues, including spill prevention and temperature retention, while remaining commercially viable and environmentally considerate.

The selected design was produced by apprentices Josephine Cooper and William Shaw. Rather than creating an entirely new box format, the students adapted an existing takeaway box by introducing an alternative sealing method. The revised structure incorporates additional folds within the cardboard, forming a more secure closure intended to improve stability during transport.

According to Deliveroo, the design was chosen for its practicality and its ability to reduce the risk of leakage while helping food remain at the intended temperature between collection and delivery. The company has stated that the changes can be implemented without a significant increase in production costs, positioning the packaging as a competitive option for restaurant partners.

The packaging is now available to Deliveroo restaurant partners as an alternative to standard delivery boxes. Deliveroo has indicated that the design aims to address two recurring challenges within food delivery logistics: maintaining food quality and minimising mess during transit.

We are constantly seeking innovative solutions to global challenges. Partnering with the talented apprentices at Sheffield Hallam University has been an inspiring journey, allowing us to champion the next generation of sustainable packaging designers. By providing the platform and financial backing to turn the students’ creative vision into a reality, we are thrilled to see this solution officially launch on our webstore for our partners to purchase.

Jen Bagshaw, Head of Packaging at Deliveroo.

The Sustainable Packaging Challenge has since returned for a second year, with the 2025 edition involving collaboration with Deliveroo’s exclusive partner, GAIL’s Bakery, as the company continues to explore packaging innovation through academic and industry partnerships.