Instant Everything: The New Retail Revolution

The era of waiting even for a day for your purchases to arrive is ending. In China, consumers can now order anything from an iPhone to a toothbrush and receive it in just 9 minutes. The rise of on-demand retail, or “quick commerce,” marks a new chapter in the evolution of e-commerce: one driven by immediacy, convenience, and changing consumer expectations.

Importantly, on-demand retail is not just a China phenomenon. Global adoption is taking off, with countries like India following the same path. India’s on-demand retail growth is driven by a hyperlocal model, with platforms using nearby dark stores and local partnerships to deliver within 10–30 minutes. This logistics-first approach is critical in a country as diverse and sprawling as India, allowing retailers to meet unique local needs efficiently.