Description
In the era of digital convenience, grocery delivery apps have become an essential part of urban lifestyles. Among the leading names in this space are Zepto and Blinkit, which have revolutionized the way people shop for groceries. Their promise of ultra-fast delivery within 10 minutes has set a new standard. For entrepreneurs and businesses aiming to enter this high-demand market, the pressing question is: How much does it cost to create an app like Zepto or Blinkit?
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know — from understanding Zepto’s success, business model, and revenue streams, to the technical process and cost considerations of developing a similar grocery delivery app. We’ll also explore how Equitysoft Technologies can help you build your own Zepto-like app efficiently.
What Makes Zepto So Popular?
Zepto’s rapid success stems from its emphasis on quick service, ease of use, and technology-driven distribution. Its data-based operations and focus on customer needs have made it a hit in India’s cities.
Here’s why Zepto stands out:
- Promise to Deliver in 10 Minutes Zepto gets groceries to you within 10 minutes after you order — a promise it keeps more than 90% of the time based on its own performance data. This happens thanks to its network of over 200 dark stores in key spots across major cities.
- Easy-to-Use App Zepto has an app rating above 4.5 stars on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. The simple design lets users place an order in less than a minute making the whole process from looking around to paying quick and easy.
- Smart Inventory Management Zepto uses real-time stock tracking and demand forecasting tools to keep a fulfillment accuracy of 98%. This cuts down the risk of canceling orders because items are out of stock.
- Attracting Younger Customers Zepto’s brand image, quick delivery, and mobile-friendly design appeal to millennials and Gen Z, who make up more than 70% of its users. Its Instagram-like visuals and game-like user experience also help to keep users engaged.
- Operations Powered by Technology Zepto puts cutting-edge tech to work streamlining everything from delivery routes to inventory management. Their systems crunch millions of data points each day to boost logistics performance. This approach cuts average delivery times by 20–30% compared to old-school methods. AI helps map out the best routes, while smart algorithms predict when it’s time to restock. These tools allow Zepto to run even as they grow bigger.
Zepto’s Business Model
Zepto is shaking things up with its hyperlocal delivery approach, perfectly tailored to meet the skyrocketing demand for instant grocery delivery in bustling urban areas. The main idea here is to cut down the distance between customers and where their groceries come from, which leads to quicker deliveries and lower costs. They pull this off by using a network of strategically placed dark stores and some pretty advanced logistics technology.
Dark Stores (Micro-Warehouses)
These are compact, super-efficient warehouses that aren’t open to the public. Instead of relying on traditional supermarkets, Zepto utilizes these dark stores to stock fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) right in neighborhoods where demand is high. Each dark store is filled based on real-time shopping trends and local tastes. When customers place orders within a 2–3 km radius, those orders are sent to the nearest dark store, ensuring that items are picked, packed, and on their way in just minutes.
Last-Mile Delivery Network
Zepto has developed a strong last-mile delivery system, powered by its own team of delivery partners. These agents use specially designed mobile apps that help them navigate efficiently, cluster routes, and track delivery times. Most deliveries are made on two-wheelers, allowing them to zip through traffic and reach customers faster. The system focuses on getting deliveries done quickly while keeping riders safe, making it easy to scale in different cities.
Smart Inventory Management
A key player in Zepto’s speedy delivery success is its AI-driven inventory management system. By looking at order history, local preferences, and real-time demand trends, Zepto can smartly stock up on the products that are most likely to be ordered. This not only minimizes the chances of having unsold items but also enhances the speed and accuracy of fulfilling orders. Each dark store has a customized product selection that’s constantly refreshed using predictive analytics.
At the core of Zepto’s operations is a robust technology stack that powers everything they do. Their comprehensive platform features:
– Automated Order Management System (OMS): This system makes order processing a breeze, handling everything from placement to delivery seamlessly.
– Real-Time Tracking: Customers can keep an eye on their delivery agents in real-time, much like how you would track a ride with a ride-hailing app.
– AI & Machine Learning: These technologies help with predictive restocking, optimizing delivery routes, and forecasting demand.
– Data-Driven Decision Making: They conduct daily analyses of performance metrics across dark stores, agents, and customer feedback to ensure everything runs smoothly.
How Does Zepto Make Money?
Even though Zepto operates under tight delivery schedules and narrow profit margins, it has cleverly expanded its revenue streams in several ways:
Product Margins
Zepto makes a profit on each product sold, especially when it comes to its own private-label or in-house items, where the margins are notably higher.
Delivery Charges
For orders that are on the lower end of the price scale or during busy times, customers are charged a small delivery fee, which contributes to the overall revenue.
Subscription Plans
With recurring subscription options, customers enjoy perks like free delivery, early access to sales, and loyalty rewards.
Ads & Brand Promotions
Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) brands pay Zepto for product placements, banner advertisements, and highlighted listings in the app to enhance their visibility.
Commissions from Vendors
Zepto partners with third-party suppliers and local vendors, earning a commission on every sale that happens through its platform.
How to Build an App Like Zepto
It takes careful planning, smart development, and a solid grasp of what users want. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started:
Research and Planning
Dive deep into market research.
Pinpoint your target audience and the areas you want to serve.
Choose your product categories and establish partnerships with suppliers.
UI/UX Design
Design a user-friendly, quick-loading interface.
Outline user journeys: from product search to cart, checkout, and order tracking.
Core App Development
Customer App: Features for browsing products, making payments, and tracking deliveries.
Delivery Partner App: Notifications for orders, GPS navigation, and delivery status updates.
Admin Panel: Tools for managing users, controlling inventory, analyzing data, and dispatching orders.
Essential Features
User registration and login
Geo-location and real-time delivery tracking
Smart search options and category filters
Inventory and order management
Scheduling and rescheduling deliveries
Multiple payment options
Ratings, reviews, and feedback systems
Promotions, coupons, and discount codes
Technology Stack (Recommended)
Frontend: React Native or Flutter
Backend: Node.js / Laravel
Database: Firebase / MySQL
Payments: Razorpay, Stripe, PayPal
Push Notifications: Firebase Cloud Messaging
Testing & QA
Conduct usability, functional, and load testing.
Address bugs and make improvements based on actual user experiences.
Deployment & Maintenance
Launch your app on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Keep an eye on app performance and release updates as needed.
Offer support after launch and enhance features over time.
Cost Considerations for a Grocery Delivery App like Zepto
When it comes to building a grocery delivery app like Zepto, there are quite a few cost factors to keep in mind:
– The number of platforms you want to support (iOS, Android, Web)
– The features you want to include and how complex the app will be
– How much customization you need for the user interface and experience
– The scalability and security requirements for the backend
– The experience and size of your development team
If you’re considering a minimum viable product (MVP), it can be much more budget-friendly compared to a fully developed app that incorporates AI-driven logistics. So, picking the right development partner is key to balancing cost and functionality effectively.
Build Your Zepto-Like App with Equitysoft Technologies
At Equitysoft, we’re all about transforming your ideas into fully functional apps that blend innovation, user-friendliness, and scalability seamlessly.
Why go with Equitysoft?
✅ Skilled Developers: Our talented team is well-versed in Flutter, React Native, Laravel, and more.
✅ Tailored Solutions: We customize every feature to align perfectly with your business goals.
✅ Scalable Design: Our apps are built to grow alongside your business.
✅ SEO & Digital Marketing: We provide support after launch to enhance your visibility and user engagement.
✅ Affordable Pricing: Our flexible pricing plans cater to both startups and established enterprises.
Whether you want to dip your toes in with a minimum viable product or roll out a comprehensive grocery delivery platform, Equitysoft Technologies is the partner you can trust!
Conclusion
Creating an app like Zepto or Blinkit can really set your business apart in the rapidly growing quick-commerce market. With a solid strategy, the right features, and a tech partner by your side, you can craft a smooth, high-performing grocery delivery app that meets both customer expectations and your business objectives.
From smart logistics to real-time tracking, you can mirror every aspect of Zepto’s business model with careful planning and the right technical expertise.
Join forces with Equitysoft Technologies to turn your ideas into reality. Together, let’s shape the future of grocery delivery!
