Zipline 2019-2024: Bringing Delivery Home
2024
| Case No.
SM391
| Length
8 pgs.
By 2024, Zipline had undergone a remarkable transformation from its early days of delivering blood and life-saving medicines in Africa to becoming a global leader in autonomous drone delivery systems. This case study builds on the 2019 case “Zipline: Lifesaving Deliveries by Drone.” It begins by exploring the profound effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which lockdowns halted traditional delivery channels, making Zipline’s autonomous robotic delivery system a lifeline for health care systems. The case examines Zipline’s strategic geographic pivots and the development of Platform 2, an advanced home delivery system. It delves into the operational, regulatory, and financial challenges Zipline faced while scaling its operations, expanding its geographic footprint, and redefining its mission to create the next generation of delivery infrastructure that “approximates teleportation” for a wide range of products and a diverse array of customers. The case provides insights into the company’s innovative approaches to navigating the technology learning curve and building a sustainable for-profit model that allows it to operate in both developing and developed economies.
Learning Objective
The learning objective for this case study is to help students understand the strategic decision-making processes involved in scaling a highly innovative technology startup in diverse geographic and economic contexts. Students will explore the rationale behind Zipline’s initial market choices, comparing the advantages and disadvantages of starting operations in the United States versus Rwanda. They will analyze the impact of external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on business growth and strategy adaptation. Additionally, students will evaluate the challenges and opportunities associated with expanding into new markets and use cases, while considering the alignment with the company’s culture and mission. Through this case, students will gain insights into navigating regulatory environments, achieving cost competitiveness, and sustaining innovation in a rapidly evolving industry.
This material is available for download by current Stanford GSB students, faculty, and staff, as well as Stanford GSB alumni. For inquires, contact the
Case Writing Office.
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