Mumbai-based quick commerce unicorn Zepto is reportedly in discussions to secure an additional $400 million in funding, according to a report from The Information. This potential round would value Zepto at $5 billion, coming just five days after the startup raised an impressive $665 million at a valuation of $3.6 billion.
Recent Funding and Investors
The $665 million funding round was co-led by Glade Brook, Nexus, and StepStone Group, with participation from Avenir, Lightspeed, Avra, Goodwater, Lachy Groom, Contrary, and DST Global. This influx of capital underscores investor confidence in Zepto’s rapid growth and market potential.
Zepto Market Presence
Founded in 2021 by Stanford dropouts Kaivalya Vohra and Aadit Palicha, Zepto operates in India’s competitive quick commerce sector. It specializes in delivering groceries, household items, and electronics to urban consumers within minutes. Zepto utilizes a network of “dark stores”—small warehouses strategically located near high-demand areas—to ensure swift delivery.
Currently, Zepto operates approximately 350 dark stores across ten cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune. The startup plans to expand its network to 700 dark stores by March 2025, supported by a growing fleet of over 50,000 delivery partners.
Revenue and Growth Targets
Zepto anticipates reaching $1.5 billion in annualized gross merchandise value (GMV) by the next month, with an annualized gross profit of $300 million. This projection marks significant growth from its reported $1.1 billion GMV in March, which influenced its latest valuation.
Comparatively, Zepto positions itself against market leaders like Blinkit (formerly Grofers), which plans to expand its dark-store network to 1,000 by March 2025, and Swiggy’s Instamart with 487 dark stores. Zepto’s valuation parallels the rapid market expansion observed in competitors like Blinkit, valued at $13 billion under Zomato’s market capitalization.
Market Dynamics and Competition
Company’s strategic funding aims to fortify Zepto online position in India’s dynamic quick commerce landscape, where rapid delivery and expansive network coverage are critical success factors. The ongoing competition among major players underscores the sector’s potential for growth and innovation.
Potential $400 million funding round highlights its ambitious growth trajectory and strategic positioning in India’s quick commerce industry. As the startup continues to expand its dark-store network and enhance delivery capabilities, it aims to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for instant delivery services in urban markets.
