Uber in Talks to Acquire Trendyol Go in Turkey’s Expanding Delivery Market

Uber is negotiating the acquisition of Turkey-based Trendyol Go, a food and grocery delivery platform operated by Alibaba-backed Trendyol Group.

Uber Technologies Inc., the United States-based transportation and logistics company, is currently in talks to acquire Trendyol Go, a delivery platform operating under the umbrella of Trendyol Group, one of Turkey’s most prominent e-commerce companies. Sources familiar with the negotiations stated that no final agreement has been reached yet. One of the individuals noted that discussions “could end without a deal,” leaving the future of the transaction uncertain.

A local player with global ties

Trendyol Go is active exclusively in Turkey, serving as the food and grocery delivery unit of Trendyol Group, which operates across retail, logistics, and fintech sectors within the country. The company has become a key part of Turkey’s fast-growing digital services ecosystem. The majority stake in Trendyol Group is held by Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., the China-based e-commerce giant, which has increased its investments in the Turkish market in recent years.

Uber’s strategy of growing through acquisitions

While Uber is best known for its ride-hailing services, the company has increasingly focused on the delivery sector. Uber Eats, the food delivery division of the San Francisco-headquartered firm, has played a central role in this expansion. Previous acquisitions such as Postmates in 2020 and Drizly, an alcohol delivery platform, in 2021 are part of the same growth strategy. Through these deals, Uber has aimed to diversify its portfolio and strengthen its position in global delivery services.

Still, the road has not been smooth. A recent attempt to acquire Foodpanda’s operations in Taiwan, part of Delivery Hero, was abandoned after failing to secure regulatory approval. The collapsed deal came with a reported $250 million termination fee, underscoring the complexities of international mergers in the digital services space.

Turkey presents both opportunities and legal challenges

Uber’s relationship with Turkey has had its share of complications. After entering the Turkish market in 2014, the company was forced to suspend operations in 2019 following a court decision that found its activities constituted “unfair competition.” The Court of Cassation’s 11th Civil Chamber upheld a ban on the service and ordered access restrictions. In 2021, Uber adapted by re-entering the Turkish market through its app’s integration with licensed taxis.

As Uber continues evaluating new opportunities to expand in international markets, the acquisition of Trendyol Go could offer a strategic entry point into Turkey’s competitive and rapidly evolving delivery ecosystem. However, given the ongoing nature of discussions and Turkey’s unique regulatory landscape, the outcome of the talks remains to be seen.