eCommerce and Delivery Surprises Keep on Coming: Keep Your Eye on India
eCommerce and Delivery Surprises Keep on Coming: Keep Your Eye on India
By Mark Gray
As someone fortunate enough to visit India several times a year – both to see friends and family and to connect with our colleagues at CrescoData – I’m constantly witnessing firsthand how rapidly India’s digital economy is evolving. It’s a marketplace full of innovation, acceleration, and, often, inspiration. And while some trends may seem impossible to replicate, there’s still plenty to learn – or envy.
India’s eCommerce market is on a staggering trajectory. By 2030, it is projected to surpass USD $300 billion in value. This figure spans across sectors – from online mental health services to hyperlocal food delivery – and reflects an enormous leap from pre-pandemic levels. One of the most compelling examples of this growth is Swiggy’s “99 Store”, offering budget meals delivered for as little as USD $1.21. During a recent visit to Mumbai, I used Zomato – Swiggy’s key competitor – to purchase a beautifully made birthday cake for just USD $10. The prices are unbelievable, and the business model appears focused on scale and user acquisition over immediate profitability—but the sheer scale and speed are impressive.
Even more astonishing is the advancement in delivery logistics. On my latest trip, I experienced Amazon Now, the eCommerce giant’s 10-minute delivery service in major cities like Delhi and Bengaluru. By leveraging an expanding network of micro-warehouses, Amazon promises free delivery of essential items within 10 minutes. It’s part of India’s booming quick commerce (or “q-commerce”) movement – a model that thrives in high-density markets but would struggle to scale in countries where populations are more geographically dispersed.
It’s important to note that profitability likely isn’t the current goal for these ventures. But we should ask ourselves: What are they really gaining in the process? From a data perspective alone, the value is significant. These platforms are collecting high-frequency insights into consumer behavior – such as what people need urgently, regional preferences, and patterns around convenience-based purchasing. This level of understanding offers a strategic edge.
While many of these innovations may not yet be viable or scalable outside of markets like India, they serve as powerful case studies. They challenge us to think creatively about what is possible – whether that’s through faster logistics, more personalized recommendations, or hyperlocal service models.
One thing is certain: India is not just catching up – it’s redefining the pace. So, if you’re in eCommerce or logistics, keep your eye on India. The surprises will keep coming – and there’s plenty to learn from the ride.
Best Regards,
Mark Gray, Managing Director, CrescoData PTY LTD