In a significant move that could reshape the quick commerce sector, Zepto has announced the rollout of a 10-minute returns and exchange service across multiple product categories. The development marks a crucial evolution in the quick commerce space, where reverse logistics has traditionally been a complex challenge.
According to the company’s recent LinkedIn announcement, the service will initially cover high-value categories including electronics, apparel, toys, sports equipment, and kitchenware. Customers can now initiate returns or exchanges within category-specific windows ranging from 1 to 7 days, depending on the product type.
This strategic expansion comes just months after Zomato’s Blinkit launched a similar 10-minute returns feature in October 2024. Zepto’s service is currently operational in key metropolitan areas including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune, with planned expansion to additional markets, including Chennai.
“Quick commerce is no longer just about groceries and essentials. As we expand into higher-value categories, offering a seamless returns experience becomes crucial for building customer trust,” says Aadit Palicha, Co-founder and CEO of Zepto. “Our hyperlocal network and dark store infrastructure give us a unique advantage in executing rapid returns efficiently.”
The move reflects a broader trend in the quick commerce sector, where players are actively diversifying beyond traditional grocery categories. By incorporating premium segments like electronics and apparel, companies aim to increase average order values while leveraging their existing rapid delivery infrastructure.
Industry analysts note that quick commerce platforms have a natural advantage in handling returns compared to traditional e-commerce players. “The hyperlocal model significantly reduces return-to-origin (RTO) instances, which typically account for 20-30% of e-commerce logistics costs,” explains Radhika Ghai, Partner at Venture Catalysts and co-founder of ShopClues. “With their dense network of dark stores and delivery partners, quick commerce players can process returns more efficiently.”
For Tamil Nadu’s startup ecosystem, Zepto’s planned expansion into Chennai represents a significant opportunity. The state’s robust logistics infrastructure and growing urban consumer base make it an attractive market for quick commerce innovation. Local logistics startups and last-mile delivery partners are expected to benefit from the increased demand for specialized reverse logistics services.
The service’s implementation leverages Zepto’s existing dark store network, with dedicated return processing zones being established within these facilities. The company reports that early trials in existing markets have shown a 40% reduction in return processing time compared to traditional e-commerce returns.
Looking ahead
This development could catalyze further innovation in Tamil Nadu’s retail tech sector. Several Chennai-based startups are already developing specialized solutions for quick commerce returns management, including AI-powered quality assessment tools and automated return processing systems.
As quick commerce platforms continue to expand their product categories and service offerings, the ability to handle rapid returns efficiently could become a key differentiator in the market. Zepto’s latest move not only addresses a crucial customer pain point but also sets new benchmarks for service delivery in the quick commerce sector.
