Consumer Problems Solved by Quick Commerce | Insight
What are we solving by building another retail channel?
Quick commerce, also known as q-commerce, refers to the rapid delivery of goods, often within minutes or hours of placing an order. It leverages advanced logistics, technology, and localized delivery networks to meet the immediate needs of consumers.
If you don’t know much about quick commerce, I will suggest going through the following article first.
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We are doing a series on ‘Quick Commerce’ as it is truly an idea which is shaping Indian commerce in many ways. Check out this series at
» The Quick Commerce Series | The Thoughtful Tangle
Let’s now look at multiple consumer problems solved by quick commerce in Indian context. If you can think of more, please let me know in the comments.
Here’s how the consumer problems outlined in the mind map relate to quick commerce:
Dependent on Others
Elderly people: Quick commerce provides a convenient solution for elderly individuals who might have mobility issues or find it difficult to shop independently.
Mobility challenged people: Offers a hassle-free shopping experience for those with limited mobility, allowing them to get products delivered directly to their doorsteps.
Anxiety in waiting for delivery
Quick commerce significantly reduces waiting times, alleviating anxiety associated with long delivery periods.
Need to Save Money
Saves on cost of time: Quick commerce saves time by delivering products swiftly, freeing up time for other activities.
Saves on transportation cost: Consumers save on travel expenses as they don’t need to visit physical stores.
Saves on actual product cost: Some quick commerce platforms offer competitive pricing and deals.
Reward for new membership: Many quick commerce services provide incentives for new users, such as discounts and offers.
Get rewarded for maintaining loyalty: Loyalty programs and repeat purchase discounts are often available.
Budget-friendly options: Quick commerce platforms frequently feature budget-friendly options and promotional discounts.
Bulk purchase discounts: Though primarily focused on smaller, immediate needs, some platforms may offer bulk purchase deals.
Inconvenience Inside Physical Stores
Locating niche products: Quick commerce platforms often have robust search functionalities, making it easier to find niche products.
Linguistic barriers: Many platforms offer multi-language support, easing the process for non-native speakers.
Cultural barriers: Quick commerce platforms can cater to diverse cultural preferences by offering a wide range of products.
Difficulty in Making Shopping Decisions
Difficult product comparison: Many quick commerce apps feature detailed product comparisons and user reviews to aid decision-making.
Limited product information: Platforms usually provide extensive product details, including specifications, ingredients, and usage instructions.
Is the price right?: Price comparisons and customer reviews help consumers determine the best value for money.
Authenticity of products: Reputable quick commerce services ensure product authenticity through verified sellers.
Recommendations for what I should consume: Personalized recommendations and AI-driven suggestions help consumers discover relevant products.
Lack of expert consultation: Some platforms offer access to expert advice through chat or video calls.
Discovering local specialties: Quick commerce can facilitate access to local specialties that may not be available in traditional stores.
Inertia
Getting ready to go out: Quick commerce eliminates the need to leave the house, making shopping effortless.
Go out in crowd: Avoids the need to navigate crowded stores, offering a stress-free shopping experience.
Time Scarcity
Super-busy professionals and family: Quick commerce caters to busy individuals by delivering products swiftly, fitting into tight schedules.
Last-minute needs: Ideal for urgent requirements, quick commerce delivers products within a short time frame.
Emergencies: Provides a reliable option for immediate needs during emergencies.
Low Brainstorming Capacity
Plan when to shop: With 24/7 availability, quick commerce allows consumers to shop at their convenience without the need for extensive planning.
Plan what to shop: Curated lists and recommendations simplify the shopping process.
Regular requirements: Subscription services for regular necessities ensure timely delivery.
Occasional requirements: Easy access to products for infrequent needs.
Seasonal requirements: Seasonal items are readily available, often highlighted during relevant periods.
Remember complete shopping list: Features like saved shopping lists and past order history help consumers keep track of their needs.
Repeat shopping at a frequency: Automated repeat orders ensure consistent delivery of frequently used products.
Plan budget for shopping: Budgeting tools and price alerts help manage expenses.
Lack of Product Availability
Outside conventional working hours: Quick commerce often operates 24/7, ensuring product availability at any time.
At their nearby store: Bridges the gap when local stores don’t carry certain items.
Don't know where to buy it from: Centralized platforms make it easy to find and purchase specific products.
Just shifted: New residents can quickly find local delivery options and necessary products.
Traveller: Travelers can use quick commerce to get essentials delivered to their accommodation.
Challenged Mobility
Harsh weather conditions: Quick commerce ensures delivery even in adverse weather conditions.
Natural disaster: Provides critical supplies during natural disasters when it may be difficult to reach stores.
Lack of physical capacity: People with physical limitations can rely on quick commerce for their shopping needs.
Limited transportation options: Eliminates the need for personal or public transportation.
Safety and security concerns: Reduces exposure to potential safety risks by minimizing the need to go out.
Inconvenient Post Sales Service
Double time consumption in returning, exchanging: Streamlined return and exchange processes save time and effort.
Limited Storage Space
Limited storage space: Quick commerce allows consumers to buy smaller quantities more frequently, reducing the need for storage space.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hey everyone, I'm Garvit Sahdev 😎. I'm on a mission to gain a deeper understanding of the world, and to develop solutions that can trigger significant global change.
My curiosities span various domains including food, business theories, material science, market size calculations, economics, politics, and sports, etc. 🧐
Professionally, I have a diverse background spanning startups, consulting, policy development, market research, system building, ISO, colour physics, nanomaterial synthesis, textile chemistry, etc. 🐘
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