09-05-2025
JioMart eyes dark store network for growth
JioMart is considering entering the dark store segment to strengthen its delivery network in areas not adequately covered by its current kirana-led model as it increases its focus on quick commerce.
'An internal team is evaluating options for the dark stores foray,' said JioMart's chief executive officer Sandeep Varaganti on tie sidelines of the Phygital Retail Convention 2025, India Retailing reported. While the business has a presence in 1,000 cities through its kirana network, some areas remain underserved. 'Kirana is a thriving ecosystem, but I won't say they are not impacted,' said Varaganti about the rise of quick commerce and need for local distribution hubs.
JioMart is also actively developing its own quick commerce offering with a focus on profitability. Varaganti, who previously worked at e-commerce giant Amazon, assured that JioMart is actively pursuing the quick commerce route for growth but that the business will eschew burning money in favour of profitability.
Reliance Retail 's broader infrastructure, comprising 18,000 stores across numerous formats, supports JioMart's operations, and the group maintains a cash flow-driven approach, according to Varaganti. Indian consumers are increasingly preferring 10-minute order fulfilment over traditional three-day delivery times but Varaganti is confident that a 30 minute wait time will also be well received.
