Small Towns, Big Potential
Is tier 2 (and beyond) the next phase of qCommerce in India?
COVID-19 was a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ event. For some, it was the end, and for others, a start afresh. Unlike a file, smoothing out rough edges over time, it was a blunt force impact that changed the course of the future, akin to a hammer.
Consumer expectations around speed and convenience changed as well. Once the sole proprietors of commerce, markets were forced to shut down, forcing consumers online to fulfill their desires and needs. Sure, the level of adoption was shaky, with engagement skewing more towards the younger echelon (18-35); however, consumers soon caught on to the idea of Quick Commerce (or simply, q-commerce).
An entire year of effortless shopping and on-demand deliveries was a great enabler of qCommerce to push through and continue the post-COVID era. Now, consumers are relying on it for its convenience, with Business Wire reporting that around 65% don’t mind paying extra for faster deliveries.
So now what?
After burning some cash and ironing out logistics within tier-1, players in the qCommerce game are setting their eyes on tier-2 and beyond.
The last mile
Here’s a bold take; the challenge of hyperlocal deliveries in Tier 1 is SOLVED. Its next frontier lies in tier 2 and beyond.
However, it won’t just be about speed. It would require a cocktail of hyper-local strategies and cheap-yet-bulletproof logistics, and the brands that have just that right mix will go on to redefine convenience for the next billion consumers.
Insight
About 65% of people are willing to pay extra if they can get their stuff delivered faster
Anmol Dham is a Content Strategist at D’Art Design, where he crafts meaningful narratives that elevate brand experiences and spotlight design thinking.
Known for his curious mindset and a keen eye for detail, he delves into topics others often overlook, and brings fresh perspectives that are backed with solid strategy and analytics.
and new opportunities in the retail world.