Blinkit Leads in Product Availability Among Quick Commerce Platforms in India
Blinkit, the quick commerce brand under Eternal, has attained the top position in product availability among major quick-commerce platforms in India. With an impressive average in-stock rate of 94.4%, Blinkit surpasses competitors like Flipkart Minutes, Swiggy Instamart, and Zepto, as reported by brokerage firm Bernstein. According to the findings, Flipkart Minutes follows closely with 88.7% product availability, while Swiggy Instamart and Zepto stand at 83.8% and 82.5%, respectively.
The Study Methodology
Bernstein’s analysis examined 150 stock-keeping units (SKUs), encompassing grocery, fresh, and non-grocery categories. The comprehensive evaluation tracked product availability over a period of 10 days, observing seven time slots daily from at least three PIN codes in key cities: Mumbai, Gurugram, and Bengaluru.
Consistent Stock Availability
The report highlighted Blinkit’s exceptional consistency in stock availability throughout various time slots and days. Blinkit managed to maintain product availability levels between 94% and 95% during the entire observation timeline. In contrast, both Instamart and Zepto experienced significant fluctuations, falling below 80% at certain points.
Trends in Decline of Product Availability
During the survey, Instamart had the steepest decline in product availability, decreasing by 11% as the day progressed. Zepto followed with a 6% drop, while Blinkit and Flipkart Minutes recorded a decline of only 5% each. Bernstein suggested that Instamart’s larger decline could be linked to difficulties with demand forecasting and replenishing inventory.
Importance of Product Availability in Quick Commerce
The report emphasised the rising significance of product availability as a competitive factor in the quick-commerce sector, where companies have historically competed primarily on delivery speed and pricing. For platforms to maintain high availability, they must implement effective demand forecasting, proficient dark-store management, and reliable logistics operations.
Impact on Customer Retention
Bernstein opined that Blinkit’s operational edge may enhance customer retention and minimize churn, as consumers increasingly seek platforms capable of meeting their complete shopping needs.
Financial Performance Overview
In terms of financial performance, Blinkit reported revenue of Rs 15,664 crore in Q1 FY27. Swiggy Instamart, during the same period, recorded a revenue of Rs 1,232 crore, while Zepto achieved Rs 22,624 crore in FY26. It is notable that Blinkit and Zepto operate under inventory-led business models, whereas Instamart functions mainly through a marketplace model, leading to variations in how revenue is recognised.