The quick commerce (Q-commerce) industry in India is on an impressive growth trajectory, with its market size estimated at USD 3.34 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 9.95 billion by 2029. This expansion represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 4.5% during the forecast period according to the Mordor Intelligence report. The sector’s rapid ascent is driven by a combination of fast and convenient delivery services, increasing urbanization, and the growing trend of online shopping.
Several factors contribute to the rising adoption of Q-commerce platforms in India. Chief among these is the industry’s ability to provide consumers with a faster shopping experience than traditional e-commerce platforms. The convenience of quick delivery services, which can bring products to customers’ doorsteps within 10-30 minutes, is a significant draw. This level of service aligns perfectly with the busy lifestyles of urban consumers and the broader shift towards digital shopping.
The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a significant accelerator for the Q-commerce industry. With lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, consumers increasingly turned to online platforms for their shopping needs. Quick commerce, with its promise of speedy delivery, became an integral part of this new normal. Even post-pandemic, the demand for Q-commerce remains robust, particularly in the food and retail segments, as consumers continue to prioritize convenience and on-demand delivery.
The Indian Q-commerce landscape is populated by several notable brands such as Roofers, Zepto, Zomato, Swiggy, and Big Basket. These companies have integrated quick commerce into their business models, leveraging its potential to attract and retain customers. The growth is particularly evident in metro and Tier I cities, where the demand for fast delivery of groceries and other products is highest.
Companies are also employing innovative strategies to enhance their delivery capabilities. For instance, the use of geographical mapping technologies to establish dark stores—a type of delivery model for Q-commerce—enables these businesses to fulfill over 60% of orders within 40 minutes. Such initiatives not only improve service efficiency but also drive market growth.
The burgeoning demand for quick delivery has also spurred the rise of numerous Q-commerce startups like Swiggy, Zepto, Blinkit, and BB Now. These startups are attracting significant investments, which they are channeling into expanding their service offerings and geographic reach within the Indian market. The influx of capital and the proliferation of new entrants further bolster the industry’s growth prospects.
The pandemic-induced shift in consumer behavior has had a lasting impact on the Q-commerce market. The increased reliance on online platforms for quick and comfortable shopping experiences has become a permanent fixture in many consumers’ lives. This behavioral change underscores the need for instant delivery services, which continues to drive the expansion of the Q-commerce market in India.
Quick commerce is emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments within the broader e-commerce industry in India. Its appeal lies in the unparalleled convenience of ultra-fast delivery times, which cater to the modern consumer’s demand for immediacy. As more startups enter the market and established players innovate their service models, the Q-commerce industry is set to flourish, shaping the future of retail in India. With the market poised for substantial growth in the coming years, Q-commerce is not just a trend—it’s a transformative force in the Indian e-commerce landscape.
