Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Q-commerce

Q-commerce, also known as quick commerce, is an model that emphasizes the ultra-fast delivery of goods—primarily groceries, daily essentials, and small orders—to urban customers, typically within 10 to 30 minutes of order placement. This approach leverages hyper-local micro-fulfillment centers, often called dark stores, which are compact, delivery-only warehouses stocked with a curated selection of high-demand items and optimized for rapid picking and dispatch using and . Unlike traditional , q-commerce prioritizes immediacy and convenience over broad assortments, catering to impulse or urgent needs while operating 24/7 through mobile apps. Key to its model are vertically integrated operations, where providers manage their own inventory in dark stores to minimize delays, or partnerships with retailers for broader reach, supported by AI-driven route optimization and real-time tracking for last-mile efficiency. The global q-commerce market is estimated at approximately $198 billion in 2025.

Introduction

Definition

Q-commerce, short for quick commerce, is an focused on delivering everyday essentials such as groceries and household items to customers in areas within 10 to 30 minutes. It relies on a network of small, micro-fulfillment centers known as dark stores to enable rapid and last-mile delivery.

Key Features

Q-commerce distinguishes itself through operational elements designed to achieve unprecedented speed in e-commerce fulfillment, building on the core model of delivery of everyday goods. Central to this is the emphasis on ultra-fast delivery windows, where orders are typically fulfilled and delivered within 10 to 30 minutes, and some services target under 10 minutes to meet consumer expectations for immediate gratification. This rapid pace relies on a hyper-local focus, limiting service radii to 2 to 5 kilometers around fulfillment points, which minimizes transit times and enables high order density in urban areas. App-based ordering forms the for these services, providing inventory visibility, geolocation-based product recommendations, and automated dispatching to ensure seamless order processing. Customers interact via applications that display only locally available items, reducing selection complexity while enabling dynamic updates on stock levels during the ordering process. Inventory management in Q-commerce prioritizes efficiency with high-turnover stock, typically comprising 2,000 to 5,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs) focused on like groceries and essentials, optimized for quick picking and packing to support the short fulfillment cycle. This curated assortment avoids deep catalogs, emphasizing items with high demand velocity to maintain freshness and minimize waste in compact storage facilities. The last-mile delivery is powered by rider networks composed of workers operating on bicycles or electric vehicles, which facilitate agile navigation in dense city environments and contribute to the overall speed. These networks often employ batching and route optimization to handle multiple orders efficiently, enhancing while keeping operational costs in check.

History

Early Developments

The roots of Q-commerce trace back to the broader on-demand economy of the early , where platforms laid the groundwork for rapid fulfillment models by leveraging crowdsourced couriers and mobile ordering. Services like , founded in 2011 in , pioneered delivery beyond restaurants, initially focusing on same-day transport of groceries and essentials using a network of independent couriers. Similarly, emerged in August 2014 in , initially as an extension of Uber's ride-hailing infrastructure to deliver meals within hours, quickly expanding to cities like and emphasizing speed through real-time tracking. Early experiments in instant grocery services built on these foundations, targeting urban consumers with promises of sub-hour fulfillment in dense areas. , launched in 2012 in the , introduced a shopper-mediated model for same-day grocery delivery from local stores, marking one of the first scalable efforts to apply to everyday essentials. In , pioneers like , founded in February 2013 in , started as a premium service but experimented with faster turnaround times in high-density neighborhoods, influencing later Q-commerce adaptations. Around 2015-2018, concepts like dark stores—compact, non-customer-facing warehouses optimized for quick picking and packing—began appearing in select markets; for instance, Barcelona-based initiated trials of dark stores in in 2018 to enable 15-30 minute deliveries of groceries and non-food items. Technological precursors in the mid-2010s were crucial, as widespread smartphone adoption and GPS integration enabled precise, real-time routing for couriers. The proliferation of mobile apps like and , which gained mass usage during this decade, allowed platforms to optimize routes and predict delivery times under an hour, transforming theoretical instant fulfillment into practical operations. These tools, combined with API-driven integrations for order management, facilitated the shift from traditional e-commerce's multi-day shipping to Q-commerce's emphasis on immediacy. Initial markets centered on densely populated urban hubs where high demand and short distances supported viability. served as a primary testing ground, hosting launches of , , and , where tech-savvy populations and fueled pilots for rapid grocery and essentials delivery. In Europe, emerged as an early epicenter, with Deliveroo's 2013 debut demonstrating the potential for sub-hour food services in a compact metropolitan area, paving the way for grocery extensions by the late . These locales provided proof-of-concept data on efficiency, informing Q-commerce's evolution without yet achieving the 10-15 minute benchmarks of later iterations.

Post-Pandemic Expansion

The , beginning in early , acted as a major catalyst for the expansion of q-commerce by driving a surge in demand for contactless delivery of essential goods such as groceries and household items. Lockdowns and measures implemented from March 2020 onward forced consumers to rely more heavily on platforms for rapid fulfillment, resulting in substantial growth in the sector. For instance, , grocery sales grew by 54% in 2020 to reach $95.8 billion, as consumers sought and alternatives to . This shift was particularly pronounced in urban areas, where q-commerce platforms capitalized on the need for deliveries within 10-30 minutes to meet heightened expectations for speed and convenience during restrictions. Key milestones in q-commerce during this period included the scaling of existing platforms and the launch of new dedicated services. Getir, originally founded in 2015 in Turkey, significantly accelerated its operations in 2020 amid the pandemic, growing its user base to 1.3 million and achieving 5.2 million downloads as demand for ultrafast delivery spiked. In June 2020, Gorillas launched in Berlin as a dedicated q-commerce provider, focusing on 10-minute grocery deliveries from dark stores, and rapidly expanded to over 55 cities across nine countries by late 2021, fulfilling 4.5 million orders in just six months. Similarly, in December 2021, Grofers rebranded to Blinkit in India to emphasize its pivot to q-commerce, promising 10-minute deliveries and leveraging post-pandemic momentum to process over 1 million orders weekly in select cities by 2022. These developments marked a transition from niche experiments to widespread adoption, building on pre-pandemic foundations but propelled by the crisis. The post-pandemic phase also saw an investment boom, with global venture funding for q-commerce startups totaling approximately $17 billion from 2020 to 2022, peaking at $12.3 billion in 2021 alone. This influx supported rapid scaling, including major rounds like Getir's valuation surge to $7.5 billion in June 2021 and ' near-$1 billion Series C in October 2021. Regulatory responses facilitated this growth by adapting rules to prioritize essential goods delivery. In 2020-2021, governments worldwide classified services, including q-commerce, as essential operations to maintain , allowing platforms to continue functioning while focusing on items like and . For example, in various regions, regulations under emergency orders exempted delivery personnel from strict curfews and mandated prioritization of essentials, enabling q-commerce firms to meet surging needs without interruption. Following the investment peak, the sector experienced consolidation amid economic challenges. In December 2022, acquired for $1.2 billion, merging two major European players. However, facing high costs and competition, announced in April 2024 the closure of its operations in the , , , , and other European markets, focusing solely on , with ceasing as a separate entity.

Business Model and Operations

Fulfillment and Logistics

Q-commerce relies on a specialized physical infrastructure centered around dark stores, which function as micro-warehouses typically spanning 300 to 700 square meters and situated in densely populated urban neighborhoods. These facilities are pre-stocked with a limited assortment of high-demand, to facilitate pick-and-pack operations within 2 to 3 minutes of order receipt, enabling the ultra-rapid fulfillment that defines the model. By positioning dark stores within a hyper-local radius of 2 to 3 kilometers from customers, Q-commerce operators minimize transit distances and support the seamless integration of neighborhood-level demand. The order flow process is engineered for speed and efficiency, commencing immediately upon customer submission via a . Within under 2 minutes, the system assigns a picker in the nearest , who scans and retrieves items from optimized layouts where popular products are placed near entrances for quick access. Items are then bagged—often in branded, durable packaging—and prepared for dispatch, ensuring the entire in-store fulfillment phase aligns with the 10-minute delivery commitment. Last-mile delivery represents the final, critical leg of Q-commerce , utilizing optimized routing algorithms to dispatch orders via electric bikes or scooters suited to urban congestion. These vehicles enable average transit times of 5 to 10 minutes within the service radius, reducing emissions while navigating tight streets and delivering directly to customers' doors. This approach contrasts with broader models by prioritizing proximity over volume, achieving end-to-end fulfillment in as little as 10 to 20 minutes. To sustain product quality, particularly for perishables like fresh produce and , Q-commerce employs a just-in-time with frequent restocking from central warehouses. Perishable items receive multiple daily replenishments—often two to three times—to preserve freshness and minimize waste, while non-perishables are supplied less frequently based on demand forecasts. This forward-deployed model keeps inventories lean, typically holding stock for only a few days' worth of sales, and relies on efficient upstream supply chains to match urban patterns. In terms of scalability, individual dark stores can process 100 to 500 orders per hour during peak periods, with mature operations averaging 1,000 to 1,500 orders daily across 12 to 16 hours of activity (as of 2024). This capacity allows networks of hundreds to thousands of facilities to handle millions of orders nationwide, as seen in leading markets where operators like manage over 2,000 dark stores serving high-density areas. In dense markets like , networks exceed 2,000 stores, while in , operators like use fewer but similarly optimized facilities. Such metrics underscore the model's ability to scale with urban growth while maintaining rapid response times.

Technology and Supply Chain

Q-commerce platforms rely heavily on (AI) and (ML) to optimize operations, particularly through algorithms that analyze historical sales data, weather patterns, and consumer trends to predict inventory needs with 85-95% accuracy. These algorithms enable platforms to maintain optimal stock levels in dark stores, reducing overstock by 20-50% compared to traditional methods and minimizing waste for perishable goods. For instance, companies like Zepto use AI-driven models to forecast demand at a granular level, adjusting assortments dynamically to match real-time consumer behavior. Real-time tracking is facilitated by (IoT) sensors deployed in dark stores, which monitor inventory levels continuously and integrate with mobile applications to provide accurate (ETA) predictions for deliveries. These sensors detect stock movements, temperature fluctuations for fresh items, and picking efficiency, allowing platforms to update availability instantly and prevent stockouts during peak hours. In advanced implementations, IoT data feeds into centralized systems that alert managers to replenishment needs, ensuring seamless within the 10-30 minute delivery window characteristic of Q-commerce. Upstream supply chain integrations emphasize partnerships with local suppliers to support daily fresh deliveries, particularly for perishables like fruits, , and that require rapid turnover to preserve . These collaborations, such as Zepto's with regional farmers, enable sourcing of short-shelf-life products—often with 24-48 hours viability post-harvest—directly to dark stores, bypassing traditional distributors and reducing transit times. This localized approach not only maintains product freshness but also supports smaller producers by providing consistent demand channels, enhancing overall . Automation tools further streamline operations, including robotic pickers in select advanced dark stores that accelerate order assembly by navigating shelves autonomously and reducing in high-volume environments. Additionally, application programming interface () integrations with payment gateways, such as those used by Delivery Hero's Q-commerce partners, enable seamless checkout processes by processing transactions in real-time without redirecting users. These technologies, combined with warehouse management systems, support the hyper-efficient picking and packing required for ultra-fast fulfillment. Data plays a pivotal in leveraging for personalized recommendations, where algorithms analyze purchase history and browsing patterns to suggest items, increasing sizes by up to 20%. Platforms also use for route optimization, processing traffic data and delivery volumes to minimize travel times and fuel costs, often achieving 15-25% efficiency gains in last-mile . This data-driven approach, powered by platforms, ensures tailored experiences while integrating with fulfillment processes to maintain operational reliability.

Global Adoption

Regional Variations

Q-commerce models in are predominantly concentrated in densely populated urban areas, such as major cities in the UK, , and , where high consumer demand for immediacy drives the sector. Services like , operating in and other countries, exemplify this focus by promising deliveries within 10 minutes through networks of micro-fulfillment centers strategically placed in city centers. However, strict European labor regulations, including requirements for fair wages, benefits, and worker classifications under directives, pose significant operational challenges, often leading to higher costs and occasional market exits, as seen with in in 2023. In , particularly and , Q-commerce thrives on high population densities that support high-volume, low-cost operations optimized for rapid fulfillment. In , platforms like leverage this density to offer 10-minute delivery promises for essentials, utilizing dark stores and localized supply chains to handle massive order volumes in metropolitan areas like and . Similarly, in , the model's scalability is enhanced by urban crowding and advanced , enabling efficient last-mile delivery in megacities. These adaptations capitalize on the region's vast consumer base and willingness to pay premiums for speed. North American Q-commerce adoption lags behind more urbanized regions due to widespread suburban sprawl, which complicates the establishment of efficient micro-fulfillment networks for ultra-fast deliveries. Instead, the model integrates with established infrastructures, as demonstrated by Instacart's expansion into rapid grocery options that combine shopper networks with same-day or under-one-hour fulfillment in select urban hubs like and . This hybrid approach mitigates logistical hurdles posed by dispersed populations and larger geographic footprints. Emerging markets in the and showcase Q-commerce growth tailored to local urban dynamics, with a particular emphasis on handling perishables in hot climates. In , platforms like and Noon Minutes operate in high-density areas, employing temperature-controlled and insulated to ensure the of fresh during 15- to 20-minute deliveries amid extreme heat. Similarly, in , services such as and Jüsto focus on quick access to groceries and pharmaceuticals, adapting supply chains to tropical conditions and to maintain product quality for time-sensitive items. Cultural adaptations in Q-commerce further differentiate regional implementations, with product assortments customized to local preferences and norms. In Muslim-majority areas of the , such as the UAE, platforms prioritize halal-certified offerings, integrating them into quick delivery catalogs for items like meats, snacks, and prepared foods to align with religious dietary requirements and build consumer trust. These variations, accelerated by post-pandemic shifts in shopping habits, underscore Q-commerce's flexibility in responding to diverse geographic and societal contexts.

Major Companies

Getir, a Turkey-based quick commerce pioneer, was founded in 2015 and rapidly expanded to over 10 countries by 2023, including markets in and , emphasizing 10-minute delivery times for groceries and essentials. However, it retrenched from international markets by 2024, focusing solely on . In June 2024, acquired a controlling stake through a $250 million investment amid internal restructuring. As of September 2025, Mubadala was exploring the sale of its stakes, and in November 2025, entered talks to acquire Getir's Turkish operations for up to $1 billion, potentially altering its future. This has positioned Getir as a key player in as of early 2025, leveraging dense urban networks, though ongoing developments indicate uncertainty for sustained independent growth. Blinkit, operating in India, originated as Grofers and rebranded in 2021 to highlight its ultra-fast delivery model, now serving over 30 cities with a focus on groceries and daily needs. By 2025, the platform processes hundreds of thousands of orders daily, benefiting from its acquisition by in 2022, which enhanced its technological and logistical capabilities. Blinkit's strategy centers on dark stores and aggressive expansion in tier-1 and tier-2 cities, capturing significant user loyalty through reliable 10-15 minute fulfillment. In the United States, , established in 2013, has emerged as a key quick commerce provider by operating hundreds of micro-fulfillment centers nationwide, specializing in snacks, beverages, and household essentials for 15-30 minute deliveries. The company's vertically integrated model, including proprietary warehousing, allows it to maintain low overheads and broad product availability across more than 1,000 cities, with recent funding underscoring its market leadership in instant commerce. Zepto, an Indian quick commerce startup launched in 2021, has quickly scaled in competitive urban centers like and , prioritizing sub-10-minute deliveries of groceries and perishables to differentiate from rivals. Valued at $7 billion following a $450 million funding round in October 2025, Zepto's growth strategy involves rapid proliferation and tech-driven inventory management, positioning it as a formidable challenger in India's burgeoning sector. In , quick commerce platforms like and Zepto collectively hold over two-thirds of the e-grocery delivery market share as of 2025, reflecting the segment's dominance in online grocery orders amid explosive growth from approximately $3.6 billion in 2024 to projected $35 billion by 2030. alone commands approximately 46% of the domestic quick commerce market as of early 2025, driven by its extensive city coverage and order volume.

Challenges and Criticisms

Economic and Operational Hurdles

Q-commerce operations are characterized by significant upfront capital requirements, primarily due to the establishment of s, which serve as localized fulfillment centers optimized for rapid order picking and dispatch. Setting up a single typically costs between $100,000 and $500,000, encompassing expenses for leasing space, stocking, and technology integration for management and order routing. Achieving for these facilities generally demands a high volume of orders, often ranging from 600 to 1,500 per day per store, depending on location and operational efficiencies; lower thresholds, such as around 800 orders daily, may apply in cost-optimized Tier-II cities with reduced rent and labor expenses. These investments underscore the capital-intensive nature of the model, where rapid scaling across urban networks amplifies financial strain before profitability is realized. Unit in Q-commerce remain challenging, with costs forming a substantial portion of expenses that frequently exceed revenues in nascent stages. operations, integral to the fulfillment and backbone, often account for a significant share of total costs, though exact percentages vary by market; in many cases, fees charged to customers (typically €2 or equivalent) fail to cover the full rider and outlay, contributing to overall losses. For instance, industry-wide margins were negative in , exemplified by major players like Zepto reporting losses of approximately ₹624 in FY25 on revenue of ₹11,110 , reflecting ongoing sector-wide unprofitability driven by high variable costs and low initial order values despite improvements in EBITDA margins. Efforts to improve focus on boosting average order values and optimizing supply chains, but early-stage operations often operate at a loss to capture . Intense competition exacerbates economic pressures, particularly through price wars that diminish potential. In markets like , platforms such as , Zepto, and have engaged in aggressive discounting to lure customers, with recent escalations involving new entrants like and further intensifying the rivalry and pressuring profitability. These tactics erode margins by subsidizing orders to maintain user acquisition, as seen in reports of heightened burn rates and sustained losses despite exceeding 100% year-over-year for some firms. Supply chain dependencies introduce operational vulnerabilities, notably in maintaining consistent availability. Reliance on local suppliers for perishable and high-turnover goods leads to risks, particularly during peak demand periods, where unavailability can disrupt the promise of ultra-fast delivery and result in lost sales. While specific rates vary, platforms like have reported elevated out-of-stock incidences during evening peaks, highlighting the need for robust supplier integration to mitigate these issues. Scaling beyond dense areas poses further hurdles, limiting Q-commerce primarily to viability. The model's reliance on proximity-based thrives in high-density cities like India's top six metros, which dominate gross merchandise value, but expansion to rural or Tier-III regions is constrained by sparse , extended distances, and inadequate . This urban-centric limitation hampers broader , as traditional prove more feasible in less populated areas.

Environmental and Social Impacts

Q-commerce's ultra-fast delivery model has raised substantial concerns regarding its environmental footprint, particularly through elevated carbon emissions stemming from frequent, short-haul trips by delivery vehicles and riders. Unlike traditional , which often consolidates orders for efficiency, Q-commerce's emphasis on 10-30 minute fulfillment leads to less optimized routes and higher vehicle utilization, resulting in significantly increased . A study of urban B2C operations found that incorporating a high proportion of express deliveries (up to 90%) can raise total mileage traveled by as much as 165% compared to standard scenarios, directly amplifying CO2 output due to repeated engine starts and idling in dense city environments. For context, while a typical parcel delivery emits around 170 grams of CO2, Q-commerce's fragmented may increase emissions due to frequent short trips. The sector also contributes to heightened waste generation, driven by the need for rapid, protective to prevent damage during hasty handling and transport. This results in greater reliance on single-use and materials, exacerbating urban streams. In regions like , where Q-commerce has exploded, the model is fueling a notable surge in , with excessive , polybags, and insulated pouches discarded after each order, contributing to up to 10% more plastic compared to conventional or slower . Socially, Q-commerce perpetuates challenges in labor conditions for its gig workforce, primarily delivery riders who operate as independent contractors. These workers frequently face through low pay structures, with average monthly net earnings of ₹21,000–₹28,000 (≈$1.25–$1.70 per hour) after accounting for , , and incentives variability, often falling below local minimum wages in ; festive incentives can boost earnings to ₹50,000 per month. Moreover, the high-pressure exposes riders to elevated injury risks from traffic accidents and overwork, with limited access to health benefits, , or , as they lack employee status under most platforms. The urban-centric nature of Q-commerce further entrenches social inequities, as services prioritize high-density, affluent city cores for profitability, sidelining low-income neighborhoods and creating or worsening "delivery deserts" where residents lack access to quick essentials. This bias deepens divides in and availability, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities who rely on slower or more expensive alternatives. In response, regulatory attention is intensifying globally to address these impacts. The has imposed stricter CO2 emission standards for new light-duty vehicles in 2025, mandating an average of 93.6 grams per kilometer fleet-wide, compelling Q-commerce operators to transition delivery fleets toward electric or low-emission options to comply. Meanwhile, labor unions in the and are advocating for reforms, including minimum pay guarantees and safety protocols; for instance, delivery worker collectives have staged strikes demanding fair wages and insurance, while groups push for reclassification of gig workers to secure benefits. In , Plastic Waste Management Rules require 30% recycled content in packaging by April 2025, prompting platforms to adopt sustainable materials. Recent innovations, such as fleets by and Zepto, aim to mitigate emissions, alongside sector-wide progress toward EBITDA positivity by late 2025.

Future Prospects

Emerging Innovations

Artificial intelligence is driving significant enhancements in Q-commerce through and models. tools enable platforms to forecast demand and optimize inventory, achieving high levels of accuracy by analyzing historical data, weather patterns, and consumer behavior in . For instance, systems in quick commerce operations use to predict stock needs, reducing errors in order preparation and supporting up to 99% accuracy in high-volume fulfillment centers. models powered by adjust costs based on real-time factors like demand surges, competitor pricing, and inventory levels, allowing platforms such as to maximize revenue while maintaining competitive edges. Autonomous delivery systems are advancing Q-commerce with pilots for drones and robots, aiming to streamline last-mile logistics. Starship Technologies has conducted ongoing trials of its sidewalk robots in the UK, partnering with retailers like Co-op and Bolt for grocery deliveries in urban areas such as Bedford and Milton Keynes, navigating pavements autonomously to handle orders under 10 minutes. Drone initiatives, including Wing's collaboration with Walmart, are expanding to deliver essentials in under 30 minutes across U.S. cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, with pilots demonstrating potential reductions in human involvement for short-distance routes by automating up to 30% of last-mile handoffs. These technologies build on existing supply chain tech by integrating GPS and AI for obstacle avoidance, enhancing efficiency in dense urban environments. Sustainability technologies are integrating into Q-commerce to address environmental concerns, particularly through (EV) fleets and biodegradable packaging. Companies like and are deploying EV fleets for last-mile deliveries, with completing over one billion EV trips in the U.S. by 2025, cutting emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional vehicles and lowering operational costs through reduced fuel dependency. Biodegradable packaging integrations, such as those from plant-based materials like and , are being adopted by platforms including and to replace single-use plastics, ensuring compostable options that decompose without residue while maintaining product integrity during rapid fulfillment. Ecosystem expansions are fostering hybrid models through retailer partnerships, exemplified by Walmart's quick delivery pilots. has partnered with for drone-based grocery delivery, expanding to over 100 stores in five U.S. cities including and by mid-2025, blending on-demand Q-commerce with traditional retail inventories for sub-30-minute fulfillment. These collaborations enable seamless integration of dark stores with brick-and-mortar supply chains, allowing retailers to offer ultra-fast options without overhauling infrastructure. Internet of Things (IoT) integration is enhancing dark store operations with smart shelves for real-time monitoring, particularly of product freshness. IoT sensors embedded in shelves track inventory levels, temperature, and humidity automatically, alerting staff to spoilage risks in perishable goods like , thereby minimizing and ensuring compliance with standards. Platforms leverage RFID and systems for SKU-level updates, enabling predictive restocking that supports Q-commerce's 15-30 minute promises while reducing overstock by up to 20%.

Market Projections

The global quick commerce market is projected to reach $184.55 billion in 2025 and grow to $337.59 billion by 2032, exhibiting a (CAGR) of 9.01% during the forecast period. This expansion reflects the increasing consumer demand for ultra-fast delivery services, particularly in urban areas where convenience drives adoption. Regionally, is expected to exhibit the highest growth rate in the quick commerce market, driven by rapid urbanization and high population density in key markets like and . In contrast, is expected to experience stabilization following a period of industry consolidation, with revenue projected to reach $17.46 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 6.75%. Quick commerce is expected to contribute to online grocery penetration rates reaching 20-25% of urban grocery sales by 2030, largely propelled by strong adoption among consumers who prioritize speed and digital integration. Key influencing factors include post-pandemic economic recovery boosting disposable incomes, the rollout of networks enabling faster mobile applications and tracking, and regulatory incentives promoting green to reduce emissions. However, potential disruptions such as economic downturns could temper growth, potentially reducing the CAGR to 5-7% if operational costs like labor and fuel remain elevated.

References

  1. [1]
    Quick commerce pushes the limits on grocery delivery - McKinsey
    Aug 17, 2022 · It's a new way of bringing goods to the consumers. Instead of shopping out of fear that you will run out of something at home, having access and ...Missing: overview | Show results with:overview
  2. [2]
    What is Quick Commerce? - Netguru
    also known as q-commerce or on-demand delivery — refers to the delivery of small orders of goods, often groceries, to urban ...What is quick commerce? · An overview of the quick... · Quick commerce business...
  3. [3]
    Quick Commerce - Logistics of Things - DHL
    An evolution of e-commerce, dubbed quick commerce, is distinguished by immediate fulfilment and delivery. The global quick commerce market grew rapidly during ...<|separator|>
  4. [4]
    What is Quick Commerce? Definition of Quick Commerce, Quick Commerce Meaning - The Economic Times
    ### Definition and Explanation of Quick Commerce
  5. [5]
    [PDF] The Emergence of Rapid Commerce in India
    Rather than an all-purpose channel, Q-commerce may increasingly specialize in categories best suited for ultrafast delivery. Rapid commerce, typically operating ...
  6. [6]
    When Postmates was young: the early years - VatorNews
    Sep 13, 2019 · Launch, at two years and nine months from founding: In December 2011, Postmates launches in San Francisco. Same day deliveries start at $15 for ...Missing: commerce | Show results with:commerce
  7. [7]
    Uber Eats Revenue and Usage Statistics (2025) - Business of Apps
    Uber Eats Overview ; Launch date, August 2014 ; HQ, San Francisco, California ; People, Dara Khosrowshahi (CEO), Pierre-Dimitri Gore-Coty (Uber VP, Deliveries).
  8. [8]
    Instacart Company | About Us
    2012. Founded by Apoorva Mehta, Max Mullen and Brandon Leonardo, Instacart launches in the San Francisco Bay Area helping to deliver food from local grocers.
  9. [9]
    https://www.instacart.com/company/about-us
  10. [10]
    On-demand grocery delivery: The latest updates - Sifted
    Jul 25, 2021 · Barcelona-based Glovo was the first takeaway food delivery platform in Europe to begin experimenting with dark stores in Spain back in 2018.Missing: early | Show results with:early
  11. [11]
    Top 10 Technologies that changed our lives in the 2010s
    Dec 20, 2019 · GPS Apps – Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze​​ GPS technology has been around for decades but it wasn't until the 2010s that everyone had navigation ...Missing: precursors mid-
  12. [12]
    Examining Key Influences on Quick Commerce Usage
    Europe's quick commerce industry has seen rapid growth, meanwhile an estimated 45% of consumers in Britain, Germany and France say they would use such a service ...
  13. [13]
    Reasons that Propelled the Rapid Rise of Quick Commerce
    Sep 27, 2023 · The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for the rapid growth of Quick Commerce. Lockdowns and social distancing measures forced consumers to ...
  14. [14]
    Getir Revenue and Usage Statistics (2025) - Business of Apps
    Jan 22, 2025 · Getir's rise to prominence happened quickly, expanding outside of Turkey at the start of 2021. It was the most downloaded delivery app in Europe ...
  15. [15]
    Delivery Hero invests in on-demand grocery delivery company ...
    Oct 19, 2021 · Delivery Hero is taking a minority stake in the Berlin-based on-demand grocery delivery company Gorillas, investing USD 235 million (EUR 200 ...Missing: launch | Show results with:launch
  16. [16]
    Blinkit Case Study: Impact on Quick-Commerce Market 2025 - WareIQ
    Jul 22, 2024 · Rebranding to Blinkit: In December 2021, Grofers rebranded to Blinkit to emphasize its focus on rapid delivery and innovation in the quick- ...
  17. [17]
    Quick Commerce - 2025 Market & Investments Trends - Tracxn
    Oct 6, 2025 · Quick Commerce saw a total funding of more than $28.7B in the last 10 years. The most amount of funding was in 2021 at more than $12.3B. There ...Missing: boom | Show results with:boom
  18. [18]
    Gorillas grabs 'close to' $1BN, Series C values the on-demand ...
    Oct 19, 2021 · Berlin-based on-demand grocery delivery and dark store operator Gorillas has grabbed “close to” $1 billion in Series C funds.Missing: milestones | Show results with:milestones
  19. [19]
    [PDF] Evolution of food e-commerce during the COVID-19 pandemic
    Food e-commerce skyrocketed during COVID-19, becoming a fundamental distribution method. Lockdowns forced online shopping, and consumers now enjoy the ...Missing: goods | Show results with:goods
  20. [20]
    Home-deliveries before-during COVID-19 lockdown - PubMed Central
    During the COVID-19 lockdowns, home deliveries have changed from being a desirable luxury or comfortable solution to a health-supporting and essential service ...
  21. [21]
    The five zeros reshaping stores - McKinsey
    Mar 16, 2022 · Macy's now partners with DoorDash to provide same-day delivery of select goods. The emergence of quick-commerce players such as Gorillas in ...
  22. [22]
    What is Quick Commerce? Complete Guide 2025
    Sep 5, 2025 · Quick commerce is an ultra-fast retail delivery model that fulfills orders within 15 minutes to 1 hour of placement.
  23. [23]
    World's Fastest Deliveries Ignite an Investment Frenzy in India
    a habit quick commerce is built to serve. ... “The heating up of the ...Missing: definition | Show results with:definition
  24. [24]
    Beyond the distribution center - McKinsey
    Jun 6, 2022 · Q-commerce players are shaking up speed paradigms by offering “instant” delivery within as little as 20 minutes. These players focus on a small ...Missing: overview | Show results with:overview
  25. [25]
    From Order to Delivery: Behind Dark Stores Operations - MetricsCart
    May 26, 2025 · Dark stores are retail-like facilities set up by quick commerce (QC) platforms to fulfil online delivery orders. Spanning around 2,500–4,000 sq.Missing: size 500-2000 sqm<|separator|>
  26. [26]
    Delhivery to set up 50 dark stores; eyes Rs 100 crore revenue boost ...
    Feb 7, 2025 · The first set of dark stores are already approaching 500 orders per day...And the breakeven point for these stores is much lower than it is for ...
  27. [27]
    AI forecasting inventory management: Cut Overstock 30%
    Q: How accurate is AI forecasting compared to traditional methods? A: AI forecasting typically achieves 85-95% accuracy versus 60-70% for manual methods ...
  28. [28]
    AI-driven operations forecasting in data-light environments - McKinsey
    Feb 15, 2022 · AI forecasting engines can automate up to 50 percent of workforce-management tasks, leading to cost reductions of 10 to 15 percent while gradually improving ...
  29. [29]
    [PDF] Deep-Dive: Quick Commerce - JM Financial
    Feb 29, 2024 · QC is essentially a retail business: There is huge focus on getting the supply chain infrastructure right as QC is essentially a retail business ...
  30. [30]
    https://www.astraia.co.za/ai-forecasting-inventory-management-cut-overstock-30/
  31. [31]
    Why IoT Condition Monitoring Is Vital for Dark Stores - DATOMS
    Jul 17, 2025 · IoT condition monitoring is vital for dark stores as it ensures product safety, freshness, prevents spoilage, reduces waste, and ensures ...Missing: Q- | Show results with:Q-
  32. [32]
    The Role of AI and Real-Time Inventory in Quick Commerce Success
    Jul 16, 2025 · Discover how AI in quick commerce is transforming and learn how top Q-commerce platforms use AI for demand forecasting.
  33. [33]
    Fixing the Dilemma: Quality of Fresh Produce vs. Less Than 45 Mins ...
    Fresh produce, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meats, have an extremely short shelf life, especially in the absence of proper cold storage. Hence, ...Missing: suppliers | Show results with:suppliers
  34. [34]
    What Is Quick Commerce? Exploring Dark Stores in 2024 - 42Signals
    Oct 11, 2024 · Quick Commerce (Q-Commerce) offers rapid, on-demand delivery, often within 10 to 30 minutes, built on speed and immediacy.What is Q-Commerce? · What Is The Role of Dark... · The Impact of Digital Shelf...
  35. [35]
    Q-Commerce Partner API (POS & Assortment APIs)
    The Partner API is the name given to two APIs which enable vendors to self-manage and automate the order transmission & item-management process.Missing: payment | Show results with:payment
  36. [36]
    Quick Commerce (Q-commerce) | Basics - The Thoughtful Tangle
    Jun 18, 2024 · Q-commerce is a type of online retail service that focuses on delivering products to customers very quickly, usually within a short time frame like 10 minutes ...
  37. [37]
    https://shipsy.io/blogs/quality-in-fresh-produce-quick-commerce/
  38. [38]
    Quick Commerce Market Size, Share, Growth Report, 2030
    The global quick commerce market size was estimated at USD 68.82 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 323.91 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of ...Missing: average | Show results with:average
  39. [39]
    Quick commerce startup Getir plans to exit France amid regulatory ...
    Jun 21, 2023 · In a press release sent to AFP, Getir has announced that it plans to exit France. As a reminder, Getir pioneered the concept of quick ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  40. [40]
    Quick Commerce Statistics & Market Size 2025 [Global Data]
    Sep 6, 2025 · India has become the fastest-growing quick commerce market, with a 17% growth rate in 2025, driven by its high population density and rapid ...
  41. [41]
    Everything you need to know about US quick commerce - NIQ
    Sep 16, 2024 · Instacart is now officially a player in the rapid delivery space. Already the leader in same day grocery delivery, it's now working on its ...Missing: North suburban
  42. [42]
    The Future of Quick Commerce in North America - LinkedIn
    Mar 21, 2025 · Can Quick Commerce work in the U.S. and Canada? Explore key trends, growth factors, and challenges in this fast delivery model.Daniel Perez Clarke · Why Q-Commerce Could Work In... · 4. It Fills A Market Gap
  43. [43]
    Why Quick Commerce Is the Next Big Opportunity in Middle East?
    Jul 14, 2025 · In this blog, we break down the rise of Q-commerce, explore the trends fueling its growth in the region, and highlight how brands and new-age ...Missing: hot perishables
  44. [44]
    The race to build Mexico's quickest delivery app - Rest of World
    Oct 26, 2021 · The race to build Mexico's quickest delivery app. Customers like faster deliveries, but it's the startups' VC backers that have a need for speed.Missing: climate | Show results with:climate
  45. [45]
    K-food expands UAE presence, from quick commerce to halal ...
    such as ramen, sauces and beverages — easily available to UAE consumers. Through targeted ...
  46. [46]
    https://nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/analysis/2024/everything-you-need-to-know-about-us-quick-commerce/
  47. [47]
    Mubadala explores selling all Getir stakes in Turkey, sources say
    Sep 21, 2025 · The move follows a tussle for control of the Turkish firm between Mubadala and Getir's founders linked to competing restructuring plans.
  48. [48]
    Mubadala to take controlling stake in Getir with $250m investment
    Jun 25, 2024 · The new investment will see Mubadala assume control of Getir's grocery and food business within Turkiye.
  49. [49]
    India's Quick Commerce Boom: A Step Closer to Becoming a ...
    May 5, 2025 · Blinkit: Established in 2013, Blinkit, formerly known as Grofers, rebranded in 2021 to emphasize its commitment to rapid grocery deliveries, ...
  50. [50]
    How India Shops Online 2025 | Bain & Company
    Mar 26, 2025 · In 2024, more than two-thirds of all e-grocery orders and one-tenth of e-retail spend happened on q-commerce platforms. Q-commerce is forecasted ...
  51. [51]
    https://finance.yahoo.com/news/mubadala-controlling-stake-getir-250m-145824363.html
  52. [52]
    A Look at Gopuff's Year of Hypergrowth
    Dec 22, 2021 · Gopuff now operates nearly 600 micro-fulfillment centers and stores, delivering 4,000 products to customers in over 1,000 cities across the US & ...Gopuff 2021 Year In Review · Strategic M&a · Category & Geographic Growth
  53. [53]
    Zepto raises $450M at $7B valuation as Indian quick-commerce ...
    Oct 16, 2025 · Zepto raises $450M at $7B valuation as Indian quick-commerce market heats up · Groww raises nearly $750M in IPO as India's retail investing boom ...
  54. [54]
    India Rapid-Commerce Startup Zepto's Valuation Hits $7 Billion
    Oct 16, 2025 · The startup's valuation grew to $7 billion after a financing round that drew existing backers Goodwater Capital and General Catalyst, the ...<|separator|>
  55. [55]
    The top 10 fastest growing quick commerce markets in 2025
    Mar 4, 2025 · By the end of 2025, Blinkit is expected to have 46% of the Indian Q-commerce market, which is dominated by major competitors like Zepto, Swiggy, ...Missing: Asia population<|control11|><|separator|>
  56. [56]
    Tier II cities pick up quick commerce adoption: Emkay report
    Jul 16, 2025 · Moreover, lower rent and wage costs have also pulled down the break-even mark for dark stores to 800 orders per day from 1,300 per day per store ...
  57. [57]
    Building Scalable Dark Stores: A Practical Guide for Q-Commerce ...
    Aug 21, 2025 · Building Scalable Dark Stores: A Practical Guide for Q-Commerce & E-Grocery Entrepreneurs The rise of Quick Commerce ... A dark store is a system ...
  58. [58]
    [PDF] Quick commerce - Roland Berger
    Delivery fees, which tend to be around EUR 2, with no minimum order value, rarely cover the actual costs. And in non-food segments such as fashion, return costs ...
  59. [59]
    Why Quick Commerce Is Struggling: A Lesson from Hagel's ...
    Apr 25, 2025 · Zepto, despite achieving $1.4 billion valuation and becoming India's fastest unicorn, reported EBITDA losses of ₹1,272 crore in FY23. Even with ...
  60. [60]
    https://m.economictimes.com/tech/technology/blinkit-tops-quick-commerce-with-over-50-market-share-set-to-gain-more-bofa/articleshow/124061833.cms
  61. [61]
    India's $100B Quick-Commerce War Heats Up - Yahoo Finance
    Aug 28, 2025 · Billions flow into India's instant-delivery race as valuations soar, losses mount, and investors weigh whether growth justifies the hype.Missing: revenue erosion
  62. [62]
    India's Quick Commerce Boom: Growth vs. Profitability
    Competitive Pricing: To attract and retain customers, quick commerce platforms often engage in aggressive pricing strategies, which erode profit margins.
  63. [63]
    Blinkit on the Clock: A Deep Dive into Delivery Delays, Stockouts ...
    Jun 13, 2025 · Evening: Slightly fewer orders (32) but the highest OOS rate (78.13%); Afternoon: OOS rate of 75.86%; Night: Fewer orders and the lowest OOS ...
  64. [64]
    Quick Commerce- Business Model, Challenges, and Future Prospects
    Sep 26, 2025 · As operational models become more refined, quick commerce will likely expand beyond metropolitan areas to smaller cities and suburban markets.
  65. [65]
    Quick-Commerce vs. Traditional E-Commerce: Stock & Shipping ...
    Apr 30, 2025 · Quick-commerce focuses on near-instant delivery, often under 60 minutes, relying on decentralised, hyperlocal stock placement.
  66. [66]
    The environmental impact of fast delivery B2C e-commerce in ...
    Moreover, they provide economic and environmental benefits due to reduced fuel consumption and thus GHG emissions with no major impact for consumers. Graphical ...
  67. [67]
    How to make your online shopping less of an environmental or ...
    Dec 13, 2020 · "If a delivery man drops 150 packages on a 100-kilometre road, they will emit 26 kilograms of carbon dioxide, which is around 170 grams for one ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  68. [68]
    Instant gratification, lasting damage: The environmental cost of quick ...
    Apr 15, 2025 · India's quick commerce obsession is driving a surge in plastic waste, overconsumption, and emissions that neither policy nor platforms seem prepared to tackle.
  69. [69]
    Quick commerce firms face delivery partner crunch amid rising ...
    Jun 20, 2025 · Blinkit riders in New Delhi said their earnings ranged from Rs 12 to Rs 25 per order based on distance. “For 3–4 km, we earn up to Rs 40. During ...
  70. [70]
    (PDF) Q-commerce or E-commerce? A systematic state of the art on ...
    Findings The result of this study reveals that GHG emissions from both modes of shopping depend on various parameters such as speed of delivery, last-mile depot ...
  71. [71]
    Delivering to deserts: New data reveals the geography of digital ...
    May 11, 2022 · Delivery zones reach most Americans living in traditionally defined “food deserts.” We found that 90% of people living in low-income, low-access ...
  72. [72]
    Within reach: The 2025 CO2 targets for new passenger cars in the ...
    Oct 14, 2024 · European Union legislation mandates carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction targets for new car and van sales. This regulation, referred to as the EU ...Missing: commerce | Show results with:commerce<|control11|><|separator|>
  73. [73]
    The Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Shaping Quick Commerce In 2025
    Oct 15, 2025 · AI revolutionizes quick commerce through demand forecasting, smart inventory management, route optimization, and personalized customer ...
  74. [74]
    AI in Quick Commerce: Enhancing Retail Speed and Efficiency
    The power of AI in quick commerce to boost delivery speed, optimize inventory, forecast demand, and create a seamless shopping experience.How Ai Improves Last-Mile... · Benefits Of Ai In Supply... · Future Outlook Of Ai In...
  75. [75]
    Predictive Analytics for eCommerce Inventory Management 2025
    Aug 22, 2025 · Transform inventory management with predictive analytics. Forecast demand, prevent stockouts, reduce costs.
  76. [76]
    How AI Is Scaling Up Quick Commerce by Leveraging Customer Data
    May 8, 2025 · AI is revolutionizing the quick commerce (Q-commerce) sector by streamlining operations and elevating the customer experience to new heights. In ...
  77. [77]
    Complete Guide to AI Integrated Quick Commerce App ... - GeekyAnts
    Jun 30, 2025 · AI tracks stock across multiple dark stores and updates availability instantly, ensuring accurate listings and reducing order cancellations.
  78. [78]
    ​Starship urges clearer regulations for its pavement robots | The ...
    Oct 16, 2025 · The company is calling for a “small change in the law around pavement use” for the technology, which is “not currently defined in UK law”. A ...
  79. [79]
    Co-op and Starship roll-out delivery robots - Post & Parcel
    Co-op and Starship technologies have expanded their partnership with robot deliveries rolling-out to neighbourhoods in Bedford, England.Missing: trials | Show results with:trials
  80. [80]
    Walmart Takes Flight With Drone Delivery Expansion to Five New ...
    Jun 5, 2025 · Through an agreement with established drone provider Wing, Walmart can deliver a faster, more efficient service to even more customers — ...
  81. [81]
    How Robots and Drones Are Reshaping Quick Commerce - Medium
    Jun 19, 2025 · Warehouse robots will be implemented in mother warehouses, drop points, dark stores, thereby automating the entire process flow of goods from e ...Missing: pickers | Show results with:pickers
  82. [82]
    How Amazon's EV Fleet Revolutionised Green Logistics
    Jan 7, 2025 · Amazon marks one billion US deliveries via electric vehicles, redefining procurement and last-mile logistics with sustainability at its core.
  83. [83]
    Powering a sustainable last mile: How EVs are revolutionizing the ...
    Apr 8, 2025 · Electric vehicles (EVs) offer a cleaner, cost-effective alternative to traditional fleets, reducing emissions and operational costs. Supportive ...
  84. [84]
    The Sustainability Paradox of Quick Commerce: Convenience vs ...
    Jul 15, 2025 · The Q-commerce last-mile delivery and transportation lead to greenhouse gas emissions, with urban logistics playing a substantial role due to ...
  85. [85]
    What is Quick Commerce – Revolutionizing Retail and Consumer ...
    Rating 5.0 (1) Dec 30, 2024 · Quick commerce, often abbreviated as instant delivery, is a business model focused on delivering products to customers within an exceptionally ...
  86. [86]
    Walmart Goes Big With Drone Delivery Expansion - WIRED
    Jun 5, 2025 · Walmart, with its partner Wing, plans to bring drone delivery to 100 new stores in five new US cities: Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando, and Tampa.
  87. [87]
    Walmart and Wing Announce Major Drone Delivery Expansion
    Jun 6, 2025 · Wing and Walmart will expand drone delivery to 100 more stores in major U.S. cities, offering fast delivery in under 19 minutes.Missing: quick | Show results with:quick
  88. [88]
    Dark Store Operations: How IoT is Transforming Retail? - Asset Infinity
    Feb 21, 2025 · Learn how IoT is optimizing dark store operations with real-time inventory tracking, energy efficiency, and predictive maintenance.
  89. [89]
    Why IoT is the Backbone of Dark Store Monitoring? - Thingsup
    Apr 16, 2025 · Smart shelves, RFID tags, and barcode scanners can track stock levels down to individual SKUs. IoT systems update central inventory databases in ...
  90. [90]
    Smart Shelving & IoT Sensors in Inventory Management - Omniful
    Apr 25, 2025 · Smart shelving uses IoT sensors to detect when items are added or removed, automatically updating inventory systems in real-time.
  91. [91]
    IoT in Quick-Commerce: Beyond Speed, Building Unbreakable Trust
    Jul 30, 2025 · IoT is reshaping quick-commerce operations by enhancing compliance, ensuring food safety, and reducing operational risks through real-time ...
  92. [92]
    Quick Commerce Market Size, Share, Growth, Forecast, 2032
    The global quick commerce market size is projected to grow from $184.55 billion in 2025 to $337.59 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.01% the forecast period.Missing: 2020-2022 | Show results with:2020-2022<|separator|>
  93. [93]
    https://www.grandviewresearch.com/blog/sustainability-paradox-quick-commerce
  94. [94]
    https://flxpoint.com/blog/what-is-quick-commerce
  95. [95]
    The next S-curve of growth: Online grocery to 2030 | McKinsey
    Mar 31, 2022 · In leading countries, online grocery could make up 18 to 30 percent of the food-at-home market 3The food-at-home market includes the grocery ...
  96. [96]
    Global Ecommerce Statistics: Trends to Guide Your Store in 2025
    Sep 10, 2024 · The global ecommerce market is expected to total $4.8 trillion in 2025. That figure is estimated to grow over the next few years.<|control11|><|separator|>
  97. [97]
    Contributions of the 5G Network with Respect to Decent Work and ...
    This systematic literature review aims to examine how the 5G network impacts decent work and economic growth in line with Sustainable Development Goal 8. It ...
  98. [98]
    Sustainable deliveries: How cities and companies can lead on ...
    Oct 22, 2024 · The rise in e-commerce has significantly increased delivery vehicles on the road, with potential for a 61% global increase in last-mile delivery ...Missing: Q- factors recovery 5G