itsu launches delivery app aimed at office lunches

Asian quick service restaurant itsu has launched an app that will allow customers to order delivery dishes that can be paid for individually or collectively.

Designed for groups such as offices and friends, itsu [to you] allows users to communicate with and track their delivery driver within the app. Itsu has also developed a new menu and packaging to suit sharing.

The platform is powered by MyCheck's mobile payment and loyalty platform, Google's Firebase cloud software and Bringg's last-mile delivery technology.

itsu [to you] is a start-up subsidiary under the itsu brand, led by itsu's former head of marketing Celeste Tobias-Metcalfe.

He said: "Everyone is time-poor in the 21st century, especially itsu customers, and often we're too busy focusing on so much other stuff that food can take a back seat. That's where food delivery comes in but too often that means unhealthy options. itsu [to you] sets out to change all that by making the whole process of ordering food not just healthy and quick but also fun and social.

"I see this as having massive appeal for businesses wanting an inspiring team lunch that's not going to make everyone feel sluggish in the afternoon as well as groups of friends wanting a break from the usual stodgy delivery options and having a good time while deciding what to share. Everything about itsu [to you] is designed with the customer at heart."

The service will initially only be available in selected London postcodes (SW1, SW8, SE11, SE17 and parts of SE1) for weekday lunch before a wider launch.

itsu was founded by Julian Metcalfe, the co-founder of Pret a Manger. The group now has over 60 sites.