Gorillas runs a chain of “dark stores” that serve as fulfillment centers.

Gorillas, which promises groceries delivered within 10 minutes, just became the fastest unicorn in Europe. The startup, which backs up its claim with strategically positioned “dark stores” for stocking groceries, raised a $290 million Series B round of funding. (Tech.EU)

Led by Coatue Management, DST Global, and Tencent, the round also saw participation by Green Oaks, Fifth Wall, Dragoneer, and Atlantic Food Labs. The round is a quantum jump from Gorillas’ previous $44 million Series A funding closed not so long ago in December of 2020.

Gorillas earns unicorn status

According to tech.EU, Gorillas has grown 10X during the past three months.

Geographically, the startup spread its operations across more than 12 cities over the last 10 months.

Its “micro fulfillment centers” or “dark stores” already number more than 40 and stock over 2,000 grocery items that riders deliver within 10 minutes for fees around $2.

The latest round catapulted the company to unicorn status – the fastest in Europe to date.

Gorillas celebrated the achievement by announcing a $1 million reward for its riders and warehouse personnel.

“By effortlessly enabling immediate access to fresh and healthy food at retail prices, we essentially simplify the process of doing groceries,” says Kağan Sümer, CEO and founder of Gorillas. “We’re radically focused on our customers and their needs: With a team of more than 2000 people and by working closely with our community, our investors, and our partners, we’re building an infrastructure for the fastest last-mile delivery of essential human needs.”

Their service becomes especially relevant during the pandemic because people tend to shop less frequently at supermarkets and store more groceries at home. Unfortunately, with more people living and working out of the home that is not always very comfortable.

“If we can order clothes and trinkets and have them delivered to our door, the same should be said for our essential needs,” Sümer told TechCrunch.

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