The retail developer behind Orion Springfield Central is partnering with drone company Wing to convert its underutilised real estate into new hubs for delivery fulfilment.
Centre developer Mirvac will build a drone delivery operations base on the Orion car park roof for its retail customers.
“We’re transforming the rooftop [of Orion] into a drone delivery hub,” a spokesperson for Wing said.
“These hubs will make it possible for more people to access the benefits of drone delivery.
“[This will allow] us to expand our reach into new neighbourhoods and expand delivery options for retail customers.”
Stores and providers who will make deliveries via Wing from Orion are not yet confirmed.
“Drone delivery is fast, affordable, safe, and convenient for customers, efficient for businesses, and environmentally friendly for communities.
“It can reduce congestion, accidents, and greenhouse gas emissions.”
The company said it will expand the fledgling partnership to other Mirvac-operated spaces in subsequent years.
Drone delivery demand growing
The demand for drone delivery in Australia has been growing in recent years.
For example, in 2021, Wing’s drones made over 100,000 deliveries across the country, and last year that number was already reached by the third quarter.
A subsidiary of Google’s Alphabet company, Wing currently operates a drone delivery service covering Logan West from the rooftop of the Grand Plaza Shopping Centre in Browns Plains.
Terry White Chemists, Boost Juice, and Chatime were among the first businesses making use of the technology, during the beginning phases of the rollout in late 2021.
It follows a series of publicised complaints about excessive noise, which Wing is planning to address with quieter models.
For more information, visit wing.com.
Top image: Wing Aviation LLC.
