The companies say the tie-up would combine DoorDash's global reach and expertise in logistics with Instacart's purpose-built technology and long relationships with grocers.

The acquisition would bring two major players in on-demand delivery under one roof, combining DoorDash’s dominance in restaurant takeout with Instacart’s reach in grocery delivery.

The deal combines the country’s largest restaurant delivery service with its biggest online grocery platform.

© Amir Hamja/The New York Times

Instacart might sell itself to a larger competitor.