Uber has agreed to acquire Berlin-based food delivery company Delivery Hero in an all-stock deal valued at $14.8 billion, a transaction that would nearly double the ride-hailing giant's global footprint and create one of the world's largest delivery platforms outside China.

The deal would add close to 100 new markets across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia to Uber's existing operations. Uber was already the largest shareholder in Delivery Hero prior to the announcement, and has set a minimum acceptance threshold of 50% plus one share of Delivery Hero's outstanding share capital. Prosus, another major shareholder holding a 17% stake, has agreed to sell its position as part of the transaction.

As part of a separate arrangement, Delivery Hero has agreed to sell its operations in 14 markets where Uber Eats already operates to New York-based investment firm SSW Partners for $1.6 billion, avoiding regulatory overlap.

Chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi said the deal would nearly double the number of markets where Uber offers both ride-hailing and delivery services. The acquisition is not yet finalised and is expected to face regulatory scrutiny given its scale. If completed, it would strengthen Uber's position against rivals including DoorDash and Just Eat.