Sustainable same-day deliveries: an interview with Onelivery

About Onelivery

Onelivery is a CO2-free delivery platform which provides last-mile deliveries to businesses and consumers. Their software allows users to choose from a range of sustainable delivery options, while optimising routes and delivery times to reduce unnecessary mileage and emissions. Their mission is to provide clean last-mile delivery services which offer a cheaper solution to combustion vehicles.

About the Net Zero Places Innovation Network

The Net Zero Places Innovation Network supports local authorities with their Net Zero journey, and engages with many businesses across a wide range of sectors to support them in public sector procurement. It aims to bring the latest products and services to the forefront, to ensure local authorities are aware of the innovations being developed across the UK.

Addressing environmental challenges in transport

Onelivery has become a recognisable name in London. Can you start by telling us what inspired you to create this company?

The inspiration for Onelivery came from a few places particularly after studying for my MBA. As a software engineer and developer, I’ve always been passionate about solving complex problems, and one of the biggest challenges I noticed was the inefficiency of last-mile delivery. Transport is the third-largest contributor to carbon emissions, and last-mile delivery plays a big role in that. I wanted to create a service that was not only faster and more efficient but also environmentally friendly.

That’s a fantastic mission. How did you start, and what were the early days like?

For the first six months, I was Onelivery’s sole rider. I covered 5,500 miles on my bicycle, delivering goods all across London. It was tough, but it gave me a deep understanding of the logistics and challenges. Fast forward to now, we have a team of 16 riders, and we’ve covered over 70,000 miles collectively, reducing more than 18 tonnes of carbon emissions.

That’s incredible growth. Can you tell us more about the environmental impact of Onelivery?

One of our core goals is sustainability. On average, individuals travel 2.2 miles to shop, often by car or other vehicles, which adds up in terms of emissions. By using e-bikes and electric mopeds, we’ve reduced the carbon footprint significantly. Our operations are 40% more efficient than our nearest competitors, thanks to our choice of vehicles and the software we’ve developed to optimise routes and delivery times.

Delivering efficiency with smart software

Speaking of software, how has your background as a software engineer influenced Onelivery’s operations?

My background has been instrumental. I designed our proprietary software to make our deliveries smarter. It uses real-time data to factor in traffic, weather, and roadworks, which is essential in a city as dynamic as London. This allows us to optimise routes and ensure timely deliveries while reducing unnecessary mileage and emissions.

That sounds like a game-changer. What kind of businesses do you work with?

We’ve built strong relationships with local NHS pharmacies and retailers. For example, we deliver life-saving medications directly to patients’ doorsteps, often within the hour. We also work with local flower shops, grocers, and other retailers, helping them provide fast, sustainable and reliable service to their customers.

It must be rewarding to see the difference you’re making. Do you have a story that stands out?

One that comes to mind is a delivery for a pharmacy. A patient had just been discharged from the hospital and urgently needed their prescription. We managed to deliver it within 40 minutes, and the family’s gratitude was overwhelming. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do.

Adopting solutions for city traffic

London traffic is notoriously challenging. How do you navigate that?

London’s roads can be chaotic, but that’s where our software shines. It learns from real-time data, reroutes drivers around congested areas, and even predicts potential delays. Whether it’s avoiding a protest in Whitehall or navigating roadworks in Camden, we stay ahead of the curve.

The shift to electric vehicles is significant. What advantages do EVs offer your business?

Electric vehicles are a game-changer. They’re quieter, cheaper to run, and don’t emit harmful pollutants. For businesses in central London, they’re a smart choice to avoid ULEZ charges and reduce operational costs. Plus, customers increasingly prefer eco-friendly options, so it’s a win-win.

Future growth and impact

How do you see Onelivery evolving in the future?

We’re just getting started. Our mission is to provide clean, last-mile delivery services cheaper than combustion vehicles. In the future, I’d like to explore innovations like drones for hard-to-reach areas and expand our services beyond London. The goal is to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible while staying true to our values of sustainability and efficiency.

What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

The biggest challenge has been the initial investment in e-bikes and software. It’s a significant cost upfront, especially for a startup. But we’ve focused on long-term savings, operational efficiency, and building strong partnerships with businesses. The support from our clients has been invaluable in helping us grow.

It’s clear that Onelivery is making a big impact. What message would you like to share?

I’d like to say thank you. Reaching 7,500 customers across London is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of, and it’s all thanks to the trust and support of our clients. Together, we’re building a greener, more efficient future. Every delivery we make is a step towards a more sustainable London. Space is also a premium in London, so we are looking for space to store our equipment- so please do reach out to us if you could provide space or if you’re interested in finding out more about what we do!

If you would like to find out more about Onelivery and their impact please visit their website or contact Simon de Garis for an introduction to the Onelivery team.