Flipkart Expands Quick Commerce Beyond Metros, Targets 800 Dark Stores

In a strategic shift from the metro-centric competition, Flipkart is aggressively expanding its quick-commerce service "Flipkart Minutes" into tier-II and tier-III cities. Backed by internal funding of ₹3,249 crore, the Walmart-owned e-retailer is focusing on markets often overlooked by rivals in their race to dominate urban hubs. With its 10-minute delivery service gaining rapid momentum and doubling in volume every 45 days, Flipkart aims to scale up to 800 dark stores by year-end, from 400 currently.

Expanding Delivery in Underserved Markets

Flipkart Minutes is now live in 19 cities, including Ghaziabad, Guwahati, Jaipur, and Kanpur. The company is targeting these underpenetrated locations to differentiate itself from competitors like Zomato-backed Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, and Zepto, which are more focused on affluent urban areas. Blinkit currently operates 1,301 dark stores, Swiggy Instamart has 1,021, and Zepto runs over 750.

“We are getting a very encouraging response,” said Hemant Badri, senior vice president and head of supply chain at Flipkart Group, as per news reports. “Traction in these smaller cities has exceeded expectations. Flipkart’s loyal customer base as well as new customers are trying it.”

Flipkart already serves more than 500 million users across 95% of Indian pin codes, offering a strong foundation to scale operations beyond metro cities. A significant part of its value proposition is the emphasis on fresh produce and high-quality perishables, with sourcing directly from farmers. 

“We are picking from farmers and there are very few players who would assure that quality,” Badri stated, highlighting Flipkart’s cold-chain infrastructure and affordability as key strengths.

Innovation through Multi-Speed Delivery and Automation

Flipkart is also diversifying its logistics through a multi-speed delivery model. Apart from 10-minute deliveries, the company now offers same-day and next-day services for core product categories. Same-day delivery is currently available in 20 cities for mobile phones and electronics and in 16 cities for large appliances. “Whatever you order till 1 pm, you get it delivered on the same day across 20 cities,” said Badri.

To support its expanding delivery operations, Flipkart recently added a 450,000-square-foot fulfilment centre in Patna and is activating a 140-acre campus in Manesar. These efforts are part of its ramp-up for the Big Billion Days sale expected around September.

The company is investing in AI and automation across its 100+ logistics facilities. It uses proprietary address-intelligence systems to flag address errors and enable geofencing, which enhances last-mile delivery efficiency in smaller cities. Flipkart also deploys AI-led replenishment models to automate inventory planning and restocking. “It’s very important to predict what is going to sell in which store,” Badri noted, emphasising the importance of inventory precision in quick commerce.

Read More: When Can Investors Expect Flipkart IPO?

Conclusion

Flipkart’s aggressive foray into India’s smaller cities through Flipkart Minutes reflects a long-term strategy to dominate the underserved quick-commerce landscape. With a robust supply chain, heavy investment in automation, and a growing focus on farm-fresh produce, Flipkart is positioning itself as a strong challenger in the race for ultra-fast delivery.

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