Quick Commerce Emerges as a Key Growth Driver in Grocery Shopping According to NIQ Report

Quick commerce is significantly influencing grocery shopping habits, with 31% of online shoppers now using instant delivery services and 39% relying on them for additional purchases. This insight comes from a NielsenIQ NIQ report, which surveyed 4,500 consumers across major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and others. The study focused on individuals aged 18-65 who shop at various retail outlets, including hypermarkets and online stores.

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The report highlights that quick commerce is particularly popular for ready-to-eat meals and salty snacks, with 42% and 45% of shoppers respectively opting for these categories. The Shopper Trends Report by the data analytics firm also notes a shift towards multichannel shopping. Consumers are increasingly using both modern trade and online platforms, leading to more frequent shopping across different channels.

Multichannel Shopping Behaviour

As multichannel shopping becomes more common, 20% of offline shoppers are also turning to online stores for groceries. This trend is especially prominent in metropolitan areas where online platforms are preferred for main shopping needs. In contrast, non-metro shoppers tend to use online stores primarily for top-up purchases.

The retail landscape in the FMCG sector is undergoing changes as multichannel shopping gains traction. The report indicates that this behaviour is reshaping how consumers approach their grocery needs. It suggests that the convenience of quick commerce is driving more frequent visits to these platforms, particularly for urgent requirements.

Impact on Retail Dynamics

The rise in quick commerce usage reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour towards convenience and immediacy. As people increasingly adopt multichannel shopping habits, the frequency of their purchases has risen across both modern trade and online channels. This trend underscores the growing importance of flexibility in shopping options.

The report further reveals that metropolitan shoppers are more inclined to use online platforms for their primary grocery shopping. Meanwhile, those in non-metro areas prefer these platforms for supplementary purchases. This distinction highlights the varying needs and preferences of consumers based on their location.

The findings suggest a noticeable increase in quick commerce visits, driven by the need for immediate solutions. This trend is reshaping the FMCG retail landscape as consumers seek faster and more convenient ways to shop. The data underscores the evolving nature of grocery shopping in India.