Instant delivery brand sets up shop for global delegates

While discussions on the future of artificial intelligence took center stage at Bharat Mandapam, a different kind of technological efficiency was operating quietly outside Hall 3. Amidst the scorching February sun and a bustling crowd of delegates, a temporary Zepto dark store became an unlikely hero for attendees at the IndiaAI Impact Summit.

Delegates navigating the massive venue found relief in this compact pop-up facility. Unlike the hidden warehouses usually associated with quick commerce, this store was highly visible. It catered specifically to the needs of the thousands of people attending the global event, offering a mix of convenience and speed.

Tailored for the Summit

This facility was significantly different from standard neighborhood fulfillment centers. Spanning roughly 1,000 to 1,200 square feet, the Zepto dark store was designed for immediate consumption rather than weekly grocery stocking. The inventory reflected the unique demands of a conference crowd. Instead of vegetables or cooking staples, shelves were stocked with energy drinks, chips, sunscreen, and essential tech accessories like power banks and charging cables.

Additionally, the facility housed a Zepto Café. This section prepared ready-to-eat items, which became incredibly popular among attendees rushing between sessions. Workers at the store noted that snacks and beverages were the fastest-moving items throughout the day.

High-Speed Operations

Despite security restrictions and limited operating hours, the store witnessed massive demand. With a team of around 50 staff members managing picking, packing, and delivery, the setup mirrored the efficiency of city-wide operations. Orders were processed on handheld devices, packed, and delivered to 11 specific pickup points within the venue.

Data suggests the store processed between 120 to 130 orders per hour during active periods. Over just two days, the facility handled more than 1,000 orders, proving the utility of quick commerce in high-density gatherings. The presence of this store is significant given the recent scrutiny the quick commerce sector has faced from government officials regarding labor practices. However, at a government-backed technology summit, the operational success of the store highlighted how essential rapid delivery services have become in modern logistics.

Image Source: Public Domain