New Delhi, India — The landscape of quick commerce is changing in India, driven by a surge in the establishment of dark stores. Eternal, the parent company of Blinkit, has been at the forefront of this transformation. With about a third of its dark stores located in tier-2 cities and smaller towns, Eternal is strategically shifting its focus beyond the major metros. This expansion is not just about increasing store numbers; it reflects a broader trend in the quick-commerce market that is rapidly evolving to meet the demands of consumers.

According to a report from Savills India, the total number of dark stores is projected to grow nearly threefold, reaching around 7,500 by 2030, up from approximately 2,525 as of October 2025. This growth is expected to be led by tier-1 and tier-2 cities, with tier-3 cities emerging as promising markets. The report emphasizes that secondary and suburban micro-markets will play a crucial role in balancing cost and accessibility. This shift is pivotal as businesses scramble to cater to the booming demand for ultra-fast delivery.

The quick-commerce sector in India has witnessed unprecedented growth in recent years. The market is anticipated to expand nearly three times in total area, from 13 million square feet to 38 million square feet. This remarkable growth underscores India’s dominance in the quick commerce sector, which is the largest and fastest-growing globally, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The combination of a large consumer base, advanced delivery networks, and increasing smartphone penetration positions India as a leader in this space.

Eternal’s Strategic Moves in Dark Store Expansion

Eternal has been aggressively adding dark stores to its portfolio, with around 1,200 new locations opened last year alone. However, Akshant Goyal, CFO of Eternal, noted that while the number of cities is expanding, the majority of store additions are still concentrated in the top 10 cities. This concentration suggests that the success of the business remains closely tied to performance in these key urban centers.

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In larger cities, traffic congestion and delivery time constraints present unique challenges. Dinesh Taluja, CFO of Reliance Retail, highlighted that dark stores are primarily focused on larger cities where these challenges are most acute. Reliance operates over 3,000 grocery stores to fill in gaps in areas where dark stores are not yet viable. This dual strategy allows for a more comprehensive approach to meet consumer demands in densely populated urban areas.

This concentration suggests that the success of the business remains closely tied to performance in these key urban centers.

The National Capital Region (NCR) leads the charge with the highest concentration of dark stores, boasting 400 locations. Other major cities include Bengaluru with 360 stores, Mumbai with 250, and Chennai with 190. Bengaluru, in particular, stands out with its high e-commerce penetration, featuring 150 square feet of dark store space per 1,000 people. This strategic positioning in high-density areas allows Eternal to optimize its delivery capabilities, ensuring that consumers receive their orders swiftly.

As the demand for dark stores continues to outstrip supply, a significant opportunity arises for property developers and investors. Savills reported a 50% gap between required and operational dark store spaces, indicating a pressing need for expansion in this fast-growing sector. This gap presents a lucrative opportunity for stakeholders looking to invest in real estate that supports the burgeoning quick commerce industry.

Implications for Employment and Consumer Behavior

The rapid expansion of dark stores is expected to create numerous job opportunities in the logistics and retail sectors. With the quick-commerce market projected to contribute 10-15% of sales in India within the next three to four years, up from the current 2-3%, the potential for job creation is significant. This growth will require a skilled workforce capable of managing the complexities of logistics and supply chain operations.

Moreover, the unique demographic landscape in India, where wealth disparities exist side by side, enhances the demand for quick commerce. Unilever’s global CEO emphasized that this demographic mix makes quick commerce a logical channel for growth. The proximity of richer and poorer consumers creates a diverse market that can be catered to through efficient delivery systems.

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As companies like Eternal continue to innovate and adapt to consumer needs, the implications for employment and consumer behavior will be profound. The convenience of dark stores will likely influence shopping habits, with more consumers opting for quick delivery services. This shift could redefine how retailers engage with their customers, emphasizing speed and efficiency as critical components of the shopping experience.

Navigating the Future of Dark Stores in India

For professionals looking to thrive in the evolving landscape of quick commerce, several actionable steps can be taken to position oneself effectively:

This growth will require a skilled workforce capable of managing the complexities of logistics and supply chain operations.

• Upskill in Logistics Management: Consider online courses or certifications in logistics and supply chain management to enhance your employability in this growing sector.
• Network within the Industry: Attend industry conferences and networking events to connect with key players in the quick commerce space, such as executives from Eternal and other leading companies.
• Stay Informed on Market Trends: Regularly follow reports and news articles on the quick commerce sector to understand emerging trends and consumer behaviors.

However, experts caution that the rapid growth of dark stores may not be sustainable in the long term. Some analysts argue that the high operational costs and logistical challenges in maintaining these stores could pose significant risks. As the market matures, companies will need to balance expansion with profitability to ensure long-term viability.

The Future of Quick Commerce in India

The trajectory of dark stores in India suggests a dynamic future for the quick commerce sector. As businesses like Eternal continue to expand their reach into tier-2 cities, the landscape of retail will evolve significantly. This growth will not only reshape consumer shopping habits but also create new job opportunities across various sectors.

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As the demand for ultra-fast delivery continues to rise, how will companies adapt their strategies to meet these expectations? The ability to innovate and respond to consumer needs will be crucial in determining the success of dark stores in the coming years.