In Chennai alone, estimates indicate that 20% of small grocers have ceased operations due to these changes. According to Sunil Kenia, another local shop owner, the effects exacerbated after the Covid lockdowns, dropping his business revenue to 50% of pre-pandemic levels. Urban consumers have increasingly favored the convenience of home deliveries, with a recent survey revealing that 42% opted for quick commerce for urgent purchases.
While experts acknowledge the disruption quick commerce brings, they emphasize that it predominantly affects urban areas as the model thrives in densely populated regions. However, as this market grows rapidly—expected to see over 40% growth annually until 2030—small retailers express concerns about anti-competitive practices from larger apps. Trade bodies have urged government intervention to protect mom-and-pop shops, claiming that predatory pricing destabilizes local markets.
Analysts suggest that, despite the ongoing tensions, various retail models—including traditional corner shops and quick commerce—can coexist within India’s diverse economic landscape. They predict that physical retailers must innovate and integrate technology to keep pace with changing consumer behaviors. In this evolving marketplace, it remains crucial for small retailers to adapt swiftly in order to retain their customer base against the backdrop of a rapidly changing retail environment.
While experts acknowledge the disruption quick commerce brings, they emphasize that it predominantly affects urban areas as the model thrives in densely populated regions. However, as this market grows rapidly—expected to see over 40% growth annually until 2030—small retailers express concerns about anti-competitive practices from larger apps. Trade bodies have urged government intervention to protect mom-and-pop shops, claiming that predatory pricing destabilizes local markets.
Analysts suggest that, despite the ongoing tensions, various retail models—including traditional corner shops and quick commerce—can coexist within India’s diverse economic landscape. They predict that physical retailers must innovate and integrate technology to keep pace with changing consumer behaviors. In this evolving marketplace, it remains crucial for small retailers to adapt swiftly in order to retain their customer base against the backdrop of a rapidly changing retail environment.
