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Polish Woman Amazed as Blinkit Delivers Watermelon in 5 Minutes | WATCH

May 14, 2025, 1:03 pm

One Polish tourist was left gobsmacked by India’s lightning-fast delivery system fuelled by apps such as Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart. Posting her experience on Instagram, Wiktoria, in the meantime known as wiktoriawanders, shared a video revealing that she had ordered a watermelon for a mere $0.50 (approximately Rs. 42.58) through Blinkit—and then got it in under five minutes.

In the video, Wiktoria can be seen sitting on her bed, slicing the watermelon in half and eating it raw using a spoon. She also uncovered some of her other shopping, which was a mango and two water bottles. Her video caption read: “India lives in the future. Like wdym I can order fruits for $0.50 and have it delivered to my door in 5 min?”

Wiktoria shared her excitement in the post, captioning, “Can’t believe we don’t have that everywhere ????. (We do have it in Poland tho ????????????). I love Indian apps ????. Day or night, I can order fruits, a cake, Uno, or literally any random thing I need ????”

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A post shared by Wiktoria | Travel & Backpacking (@wiktoriawanders)

She also commented further, “It saves so much time, prices are super fair, and I swear, no matter where you are, it’s at your door in 5 MINUTES!! ????‍♀️” She also made a joke, “I really thought I could eat the whole watermelon by myself…” The official Swiggy Instamart handle even responded to her post with a cheeky, “Hello ji.”

Mixed Reactions Online

While most praised the ease of use, some Instagram users complained about the system. One commenter opined, “Poor delivery man, this won’t even cover a lollypop, let alone gas and grub.” Another posted, “It’s not the future, it tells us that educated youngsters are laboring for underpaid employment.”

There were also cultural jabs and arguments in the comments. A user commented, “The audacity you people have after learning yoga, mindfulness, meditation, healing chakras from our culture, and then crying in the comment section. Madness.” Others ridiculed the West’s shock at fundamental comforts, with one comment saying, “Sorry but why Americans are crying in comment section ooo I get it they have never seen fresh fruits and veggies.”

India’s Quick-Commerce Boom

Some users came to the defense of India’s quick-commerce innovation, surprised that others did not have similar speedy delivery systems. “You guys don’t have that in the west?” they asked, with another noting, “Didi discovered Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart.”

In India, same-day delivery apps such as Dunzo, Zepto, Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket, and Amazon Fresh are taking the market by storm with their 5-to-10-minute deliveries and even same-day deliveries, revolutionizing how urban shoppers shop for day-to-day commodities.

‘Sangam Jal’ at Rs 69: Blinkit Turns Faith Into Business

February 23, 2025, 3:31 pm

Blinkit, the fast-commerce company, is retailing 100 ml packs of ‘Sangam Jal’ claimed to be sourced from the holy confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and legendary Saraswati at Rs 69 per pack. The pricing has raised eyebrows as well as amusement among consumers, with skepticism over the genuineness of the water being sourced from Prayagraj. Commercialization of religious goods is not novel, but the pricing and sourcing practices have led to questions about faith-based business models.

Namanbir Singh, SHIELD-INDIA’s founder, expressed his skepticism regarding the legitimacy of the product in a LinkedIn post, writing, “You can be a trillionaire in India if you can build a business on faith.”

Gathering Sangam water is practically free since anyone who goes to the location can pick it up for free. To produce the bottled ‘Sangam Jal’, businesses tend to introduce a drop of actual Sangam water into plain bottled water and sell the whole lot as ‘Sangam Jal’. “This dilution ratio, common for Ganga Jal, appears to dominate here. Namanbir further said, “Since it’s 99% regular water, the cost of production should be the same as the price of a regular bottle of drinking water.”

For perspective, 1-litre Bisleri is Rs 20, while Blinkit‘s 100 ml of Sangam Jal is Rs 69. That is Rs 990 per litre, a whopping 4,850% more expensive than regular bottled water. And the product does not show whether it is safe for consumption, and one wonders about quality control.

Commerce of Faith

The returns on selling as few as 1 lakh of this commodity are a whopping almost Rs 1 crore, giving us a peek into the money-spinning capabilities of commerce of the faith. As one facetious viral posting wisecracks sarcastically, “It’s a pure ’15 din me paise double scheme,” taking a tongue-in-cheek swipe at the get-rich-quick scheme. The judgment is unambiguous: in India, religion is not merely sacred, it’s a money-spinner.

AIIMS Professor Hails Blinkit’s Ambulance Service as a Healthcare Revolution

February 17, 2025, 12:48 pm

An AIIMS, New Delhi, professor has commended Blinkit’s ambulance service after the hospital received a patient brought in through the quick-response scheme. Deepak Agrawal, a Neurosurgery Professor, expressed his appreciation for the service on LinkedIn, terming it ‘a healthcare revolution India has been waiting for’. His comment attracted considerable attention online soon after.

Agrawal explained in his LinkedIn update how the AIIMS Trauma Centre received a patient who was transported by Blinkit’s ambulance service. He commended the paramedic team for their professionalism and effectiveness, as they administered critical care during the journey. From maintaining C-spine immobilization to giving emergency drugs, the ambulance crew were responsible for stabilizing the patient for immediate treatment on arrival.

“This is the sort of service that we would hear about and see in developed nations,” Agrawal said, emphasizing that the quality of the care was well beyond expectations. He included a photo of the patient receiving care at the trauma center, demonstrating the rapid response and the effect it had on the outcome.

Social Media Reactions

Agrawal’s message triggered a sea of supportive messages from internet users, who applauded the ambulance service that fills an important void in emergency medical transportation in India. The idea of a rapid-response ambulance providing expert care is being touted as a major innovation in a nation where timely access to medical assistance can mean life or death.

A user commented, “This is what our healthcare system requires timely, professional treatment for critical patients. Well done Blinkit!”

Another user mentioned, “Wonderful to know how far ambulances have evolved. Quick response and attention are priceless during such emergencies.” A third commented, “This initiative can literally be a life-saver. Such timely care is a game-changer.”

Numerous others spoke in its favor, with one user writing, “Good to hear about Blinkit’s professional management of a fairly critical patient condition. Support systems from private players will bridge gaps in the healthcare system.”

A few people also complimented the move, with one person writing, “Kudos to Blinkit for raising the game in emergency healthcare.”

Kumbh Mela Gets A Modern Twist As Blinkit Launches Temporary Store: Netizens In Awe!

January 19, 2025, 2:50 pm

The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, is drawing visitors from across the globe. In a notable move to cater to the needs of the thousands of pilgrims and tourists at the event, Blinkit, the quick-commerce service, has set up a temporary store in Prayagraj.

Blinkit’s Contribution to Maha Kumbh Mela

Blinkit CEO, Albinder Dhindsa, took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce the launch of the temporary store. In his post, Dhindsa shared details of the 100-square-foot store, which will be serving attendees in key areas of the Maha Kumbh Mela, including Arail Tent City, Dome City, ITDC Luxury Camp, and Devrakh.

Essentials Delivered to Pilgrims’ Doorsteps

To ease the experience of pilgrims at the Mela, Blinkit’s store will be offering a wide range of essential products. The curated assortment includes pooja supplies, milk, curd, fruits and vegetables (for both consumption and for the religious offering), chargers, power banks, towels, blankets, bedsheets, and more. Additionally, the store is stocked with Triveni Sangam Jal bottles, making it even more convenient for devotees to access necessary items.

Today we’ve opened a temporary Blinkit store in Maha Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj to serve pilgrims and tourists.

This one is a 100 sq ft store which will be delivering in Arail Tent City, Dome City, ITDC Luxury Camp, Devrakh, and other key areas of the Maha Kumbh Mela.

Our teams are… pic.twitter.com/p8pDakE1SV

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) January 17, 2025

X Users React Positively

Dhindsa’s post quickly went viral, garnering widespread attention online. X users expressed their appreciation for Blinkit’s initiative, highlighting the ease and convenience the service provides to pilgrims. One user described it as a “thoughtful use of technology to serve the community,” while others praised Blinkit for its innovation and speedy execution.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many users applauding Blinkit’s timely intervention in ensuring that pilgrims have access to essentials while they attend the sacred event. One comment hailed it as a “game-changer” for pilgrims, while another user described the initiative as an incredible way to make essential items more accessible during the event.

A New Era of Convenience for Pilgrims

Blinkit’s move to establish a presence at the Maha Kumbh Mela not only enhances the experience for the attendees but also sets a precedent for future events where convenience and quick access to essentials are paramount. With their technology-driven approach, Blinkit is redefining how services are delivered during large-scale gatherings, ensuring that essential needs are just a click away.

As the Maha Kumbh Mela continues, this initiative proves to be a significant example of blending tradition with technology to better serve the masses.

Blinkit Launches Temporary Store at Maha Kumbh Mela, Receives Praise for ‘Incredible Initiative

January 18, 2025, 2:43 pm

The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, which attracts millions of devotees and visitors, is being backed by Blinkit through the establishment of a temporary store. Blinkit’s CEO, Albinder Dhindsa, shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Today, we’ve opened a temporary Blinkit store in Maha Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj, to serve pilgrims and tourists. ”

The 100 sq ft store is strategically located to provide essentials to key areas such as Arail Tent City, Dome City, ITDC Luxury Camp, and Devrakh. The store’s inventory has been carefully organized to meet the attendees’ needs, offering pooja essentials, milk, curd, fruits and vegetables, as well as chargers, power banks, towels, blankets, bedsheets, and Triveni Sangam Jal bottles, ensuring convenience for visitors.

The tweet mentioned: “Today we’ve opened a temporary Blinkit store in Maha Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj to serve pilgrims and tourists. This one is a 100 sq ft store which will be delivered in Arail Tent City, Dome City, ITDC Luxury Camp, Devrakh, and other important locations of the Maha Kumbh Mela. Our teams are ready to provide a specially curated selection like pooja essentials, milk, curd, fruits and vegetables (for personal use as well as for daan), chargers, power banks, towels, blankets, bedsheets and more. We’ve also got Triveni Sangam Jal bottles available. ”

The initiative has received a warm response online, with users appreciating the convenience offered to pilgrims.

One user expressed, “Wow cool! But how are you going to keep track of inventory? ”

Another noted, “What a thoughtful initiative! Pilgrims now have one less thing to worry about with Blinkit delivering all the essentials, right where they need it. ”

Echoing similar sentiments, someone added, “Incredible initiative! Making essentials accessible for pilgrims—Blinkit truly delivers where it matters most. ”

A personal experience shared by another user mentioned, “I was there on the 12th and literally searched on Blinkit to see if it’s available there. Crazy stuff you guys have been doing. ”

A comment stated, “That is great, hope it works without issues. ”

One individual remarked, “Very good initiative. Kudos to the team Blinkit. ”

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation has put in place measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the devotees. The mela area has been designated a “no vehicle zone” to improve safety and control crowds.

Entrepreneur Suggests Blinkit Launch ‘ATM-Like Service,’ and the Internet Can’t Stop Laughing

January 11, 2025, 4:23 pm

Quick commerce platforms have transformed how individuals obtain vital goods, making grocery shopping and other daily essentials more accessible. These platforms have expanded beyond just groceries, providing electronic devices like smartphones and laptops rapidly. As the sector progresses to fulfill customer expectations and maintain competitiveness, new concepts continuously arise to improve these services. A particular proposal recently caught attention on social media.

Harsh Punjabi, the CEO of Dot Company and a content creator, suggested an innovative concept for Blinkit, a popular quick commerce platform. In a post on X, he recommended that Blinkit could launch an “ATM-like” service to deliver cash straight to customers’ residences within 10 minutes, payable through UPI.

Hey @albinder please start an ATM like service on Blinkit. Users will pay via UPI and you can deliver cash at doorstep in under 10 minutes. Will be super helpful.

— Harsh Punjabi (@technolobeYT) January 8, 2025

Calling the concept “super helpful,” Harsh tagged Blinkit’s CEO Albinder Dhindsa in his post, encouraging the platform to contemplate the idea. “Hey Albinder Dhindsa, please initiate an ATM-like service on Blinkit. Customers will pay via UPI and you can provide cash at the doorstep in less than 10 minutes. It will be super helpful,” Harsh wrote on X.

He clarified that the idea originated from a personal incident when he was preparing to leave for a trip but only had Rs 100 in cash at his residence. “Don’t want to visit the ATM. But I will have to,” he noted.

The post rapidly gained popularity online, racking up over two lakh views and igniting an animated discussion in the comments. While a number of users found the idea practical and creative, others voiced skepticism regarding its feasibility.

One commenter pointed out, “There were startups that attempted this, doesn’t function well without a banking license, often encountered daily limit issues. ”

Another user stated, “That’s a solid idea. There are similar services already available, and I have one located in front of my apartment. The individual runs a photocopying business, courier services, and also sorts and delivers products people purchase from major online platforms. The limit is ₹25,000 and is legitimate. ”

Certain individuals expressed worries about the associated risks, with one person stating, “You know what? It will be dangerous! But the logistics of managing liquid cash is quite hazardous. ”

One user humorously suggested, “Hahaha, actually make it better by asking the user for their preferred denominations of notes. This is a modern issue, no time to withdraw cash. ”

Nevertheless, not everyone endorsed the notion. A user commented, “And let’s become the laziest now and not even lift a finger. ”

Another added, “We’re losing the desire to carry out any activities at all. ”

A clever individual remarked, “‘Cash on delivery’ in a literal sense,” while another sarcastically commented, “You can also ask him to spend on your behalf. That would be truly helpful. ”

Blinkit Launches ‘Ambulance In 10 Minutes’ Service in Gurugram, Emphasizes ‘Profit Is Not A Goal

January 2, 2025, 8:24 pm

In a major initiative to tackle medical emergencies in Indian cities, Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa declared on Thursday that the company will now provide an “ambulance in 10 minutes” feature via its app.

Dhindsa clarified that this effort is a primary step towards addressing the challenge of prompt and reliable ambulance services in urban locations, with the introduction of the first five ambulances in Gurugram commencing Thursday.

Using the Blinkit app, individuals will be able to reserve Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances as the service grows to additional areas.

What Features Will Blinkit Ambulances Have?

The CEO indicated that these ambulances are equipped with vital life-saving apparatus, such as oxygen cylinders, AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators), stretchers, monitors, suction devices, and essential emergency medications. Each ambulance will also include a paramedic, an assistant, and a trained driver.

The service will be offered at “an affordable cost. ” Dhindsa stressed, “Profit is not a goal here. We will run this service at an affordable cost for customers and invest in genuinely addressing this critical issue for the long term. ”

Blinkit Ambulance Services To Expand To Other Cities Soon

Dhindsa revealed that the company intends to launch ambulance services in all major cities throughout India within the following two years.

“We are thoughtfully scaling this service up, as it is both vital and new to us. Our goal is to expand to all main cities over the next two years,” he added.

“Let’s do our part and ensure an ambulance is always accessible. You never know when you might save a life,” Dhindsa concluded.

Kunal Kamra urges Blinkit CEO to reveal delivery partners’ wages, slams gig worker exploitation.

January 1, 2025, 1:21 pm

After spending much of 2024 in a public spat with Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal over the company’s failure to address customer issues and faulty product deliveries, comedian Kunal Kamra started 2025 by taking a shot at the quick commerce industry.

Being based across major cities and offering doorstep, quick grocery as well as house-hold good delivery on orders, all with the recent successful growth experienced for Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart, then adding Zepto within the lot in the midst, Kamra presented the other angle or viewpoint of his apprehensions which deals concerning about the people getting exploited such gig workers through deliveries.

Kamra’s criticism began on New Year’s Eve when Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa shared the platform’s order stats, including 1.2 lakh packs of condoms and 45,000 bottles of mineral water being delivered. However, Kamra shifted his attention to the income of Blinkit’s “delivery partners” by posing, “Can you also enlighten us with data on the average wages you paid your ‘Delivery Partners’ in 2024…”

Can you also enlighten us with data on the average wages you paid your “Delivery Partners” in 2024… https://t.co/v0yBlvobCQ

— Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) December 31, 2024

He used the term “delivery partners” in quotes to highlight how fast commerce platforms, including Blinkit, Swiggy, and Zomato, classify their workers as independent contractors rather than employees, avoiding the obligations associated with employee status, like fair salaries and medical benefits.

Kamra further elaborated on his concerns by tweeting about the exploitation of gig workers. He wrote, “While we enjoy the convenience of quick commerce, I’d like my first tweet of 2025 to be about the dark side,” explaining that platform owners exploit workers while claiming to be job creators. Kamra compared the CEOs of such companies to “landlords without owning any land,” stating, “They don’t have a bone of creativity or innovation; all they do is exploit people by offering them freedom they can’t afford while giving them wages that can’t meet their aspirations.

He further blamed these CEOs for being “thugs,” for without regulations, they can continue milking the sweat from workers’ brows. Kamra concluded: “They are thugs that are using data as oil without paying for the oil fields. Someday there will be regulation that humbles them…”

While we enjoy the convenience of quick commerce I’d like my first tweet of 2025 to be about the dark side.

Platform owners exploit gig workers & they aren’t job creators.

They are landlords without owning any land.

They don’t have a bone of creativity or innovation all…

— Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) December 31, 2024

The tweet picked up very soon, garnering more than 1.9 lakh views. Many users agreed with Kamra’s stance. One X user, Ganeshan, said, “Blinkit, Zepto, Zomato, Swiggy. All of them. Zero creativity- only exploitation. The delivery workers are stretched to a great extent for compensation that is not justified at all. 10 mins delivery isn’t a landmark thing tbh. It’s sheer exploitation of humanity to satisfy the ego & whims of the buyer.”

CA Akhil Agarwal: “Studies indicate that more than 50 percent of gig workers earn below minimum wage after taking into account costs, while platforms continue to score billions in valuation.”

Blinkit Delivers 7x More Grapes on New Year’s Eve as Indians Embrace Viral ’12 Grapes’ Tradition

January 1, 2025, 12:34 pm

As New Year’s Eve approaches, delivery apps often share lists of the most-ordered foods and grocery items among Indians. For food delivery platforms, celebratory dinners typically feature pizza or biryani, while items like chips and cold drinks dominate orders for house parties ringing in the new year.

However, there has been a trend this year that left many confused. Grapes somehow emerged as the most in-demand item on the popular 10-minute delivery app Blinkit, leaving everyone stumped. Social media saw its CEO, Albinder Dhindsa, raise his eyebrows over this trend.

What’s with the sudden craze for grapes today?? It’s one of the highest ordered items on the platform since morning! We’ve already delivered 7x more grapes than we do on a regular day,” Dhindsa shared.

What’s with the sudden craze for grapes today?? ?

It’s one of the highest ordered items on the platform since morning! pic.twitter.com/cdSNjHnveu

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) December 31, 2024

The Viral ‘Grape Tradition’

Internet users soon cracked the mystery by pointing to a viral Spanish tradition as the reason for the grape frenzy. In Spain, it is customary to eat “las doce uvas de la suerte,” or the 12 grapes of luck, which will bring prosperity to each month of the upcoming year. The tradition was established in the late 19th century as Alicante winemakers encouraged the tradition to cope with a surplus of grapes.

The recent fad on social media, in which influencers are attributing luck in love and fortune to this unique tradition, has spread this tradition across the globe.

Once the chief executive officer read about the root of the grape trend, he posted an updated chart of favorites for New Year’s Eve with chips and soda. “Got grapes added to this list also,” he said; grapes were now the 8th most ordered item on the app.

That is a reminder that viral trends on social media may be increasingly able to influence what people buy or consume, not just on everyday days but during traditional celebrations also.

1,22,356 Packs Of Condoms Sold On Blinkit For New Year 2025: ‘Wild Celebrations Across India’

January 1, 2025, 12:09 pm

As India ushered in the new year, Blinkit, a popular instant delivery platform, observed an interesting surge in sales of unique party supplies. From snacks and drinks to unusual items, Blinkit’s statistics revealed the surprising purchases that made up the celebration.

Record-Breaking Condom Sales: Over One Lakh Packs Sold

On New Year’s Eve, Blinkit’s CEO, Albinder Dhindsa, shared intriguing insights into the purchases made by customers. By 10 PM, the app had sold over 1.22 lakh packs of condoms, marking a record for the platform. This revelation quickly went viral on social media, with over 800,000 users viewing the post. The trend sparked curiosity, and Dhindsa even revealed that the most popular flavour was chocolate, followed closely by strawberry.

Just some of the milestones we hit on Blinkit today ?

– highest ever orders in a day
– highest OPM (orders per minute)
– highest OPH (orders per hour)
– highest total tips given to delivery partners in a day
– most chips sold in a day
– most grapes sold in a day ?

Thank you…

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) December 31, 2024

Snacks, Ice Cubes, and Party Essentials

In addition to the condom sales, Blinkit recorded impressive numbers for more traditional party items. A staggering 2,34,512 packets of Aloo Bhujia, 45,531 cans of tonic water, and 6,834 packets of ice cubes were sold before the clock struck midnight. The app also reported sales of 1,003 lipsticks and 762 lighters, reflecting the varied needs of those celebrating the occasion.’

https://t.co/ookPgwMqg3 pic.twitter.com/oUViC73eGS

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) December 31, 2024

A Party for Every Occasion

The numbers revealed by Blinkit’s CEO offered a fascinating glimpse into how people across India celebrated New Year’s Eve. While snacks and drinks were a given, it was the unexpected rise in purchases like condoms and party supplies that truly captured attention. It seems that Blinkit helped facilitate more than just a typical party, with some looking to make their New Year’s Eve a little more memorable.

Blinkit Hits Milestones as 2025 Begins

The platform’s sales data also highlighted key milestones, with customers turning to Blinkit for instant access to party essentials and surprises. As the new year began, it was clear that Blinkit had become a go-to platform for the modern-day party host.

Blinkit’s Touching Hospital Delivery Story Goes Viral: Here’s Why

December 31, 2024, 10:21 am

One of the most recent incidents about Blinkit, one of the popular grocery delivery services, has made so many hearts touch this story as to how small good deeds make a lot of difference in life. One alumnus from IIT Bombay shared his heartwarming experience with how the company made extra efforts to put his order on top from a hospital to make his day.

Help in Troubled Times

The customer appreciated Blinkit’s empathetic attitude after sharing his story on X (formerly Twitter). “My heart goes out to the person who thought of optimising for this, thanks Blinkit,” he said. Along with that, he posted a screenshot of his order, showing the message from Blinkit that read, “We‘ve prioritised your order. We noticed your order is from a hospital. Sending you and your dear ones our warmest wishes.

This gesture, by the company led by Albinder Dhindsa, ensured not only speedy delivery but also conveyed heartfelt best wishes to the customer and his family.

Social Media Applauds Blinkit

The act of kindness received much appreciation on social media. A user shared a similar experience, saying, “I ordered from a hospital today and asked the delivery person to deliver it to our room. He did so without hesitation. Thank you for your empathy.” Another said, “Small features like these build immense customer loyalty. Blinkit‘s thoughtful print feature is another great example.”

My heart goes out to the person who has thought of optimising for this, thanks @letsblinkit pic.twitter.com/eh010zZXrV

— Sanjeet Sahoo (@sanjeetsahooooo) December 30, 2024

Several users admired Blinkit‘s humane design. “High time to thank teams that come up with such ideas,” one of the commenters wrote. Another added, “The world‘s at its best when people care about people.

A Legacy of Empathy

Interestingly, some noted that this feature may have roots in Zomato, which introduced similar functionalities during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist individuals in hospitals or isolation. The legacy now continues under Blinkit, demonstrating the company’s commitment to thoughtful and compassionate service.

Since the post’s publication, it has garnered over 300,000 views, reflecting the resonance of Blinkit’s gesture with audiences. This simple yet powerful act underscores the importance of empathy in business, creating a ripple effect of positivity and gratitude.

Man Orders PS5 on Blinkit, Gets Hing Goli as Free Gift

December 6, 2024, 4:07 pm

The speedy delivery service Blinkit became the subject of a viral Reddit post when a man ordered the digital edition of the PlayStation 5 along with peanut butter and received an unexpected hing goli, or asafoetida tablet, as a free gift.

Finally got it
byu/Any_Ambassador_9794 inps5india

The Reddit user, who was surely entertained enough by the weird gift, was excited to share his incident on the comment section by writing “The best part was about buying it from Blinkit along with peanut butter.” The post soon started running into funny comments: nothing can say ‘gaming essentials’ like hing goli!

“Perhaps they thought the PS5 needed a little extra flavor to spice up the gaming experience.” Another one added, “Perhaps Blinkit is now adding cultural snacks to their tech bundles!

“And now, while others laughed and commented, “This is the kind of surprise I need in my life.”. The incident sparked widespread laughter across social media, with many celebrating the fun side of online shopping. One commenter even said, “I’m not sure if I’m laughing harder at the gift or the fact that it was actually delivered with the PS5! ”

Similar Instance

This is not the first time Blinkit has been noticed due to an unsolicited delivery. In September 2024, one user had ordered men’s underwear but received women’s bikini briefs.

Hello @letsblinkit wtf is this i have ordered jockey male underwears and you have send me this

Now how to return this i have reported this to your help center still no return or refund had not done yet pic.twitter.com/4VcjQNMU5V

— Priyansh Who? ?? (@priyansh_who) September 7, 2024

Blinkit has been in the news since it has partnered with Sony. The company last month partnered with Sony to sell PS5 consoles in India and said that they would deliver those consoles within 10 minutes to cities like Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

BlinkIt Delivers PS5 in Minutes… With A Hing Goli Surprise Free Gift

December 3, 2024, 12:16 pm

This viral thread about the purchase experience of a Redditor has gained much importance. He ordered a PlayStation 5 Slim from the quick-commerce platform BlinkIt, but as a surprise free gift, he got a hing goli tablet-asafoetida. A funny incident that has come to the r/ps5India subreddit, making every gaming enthusiast laugh and comment about it.

A PS5, Peanut Butter, and Hing Goli?

The OP had ordered the PS5 Slim Digital Edition along with a jar of peanut butter. He found out to his surprise that BlinkIt also threw in a packet of hing goli as a complimentary item. He shared pictures of the PS5 box and invoice along with it, saying the box contained more than what was paid for.

The best part was buying it along with peanut butter from Blinkit,” the OP had captioned his post which gained attention within no time for its weirdness.
Social Media Responds with Jokes

HAVE A LOOK AT THE VIRAL POST:

Who is gonna tell him @letsblinkit https://t.co/UtoLNn5dV3 pic.twitter.com/43TihwBCC0

— Irffan (@IrffanAsiff) November 5, 2024

This unusual combination of items brought so many funny replies from users. One said, “Free hing goli is insane, bro,” and the other said, “This is the chap who places an order for PS5 to get peanut butter for free.

Others even humorously wondered how the OP broke this weirdgrocery list down to his family. “How did you even explain this grocery shopping to your family?” joked another user.

Fast delivery of BlinkIt Creates Ripples

The incident also renewed conversations on the rapid delivery service offered by BlinkIt. A resident of the UAE recently claimed to have received a PS5 within 23 minutes, with Indian users subsequently sharing screenshots of under-10-minute deliveries. “Who is gonna tell him?” commented one user while sharing proof of an eight-minute delivery.

Sony and BlinkIt Partnership

Earlier this year, Sony partnered with BlinkIt, enabling customers in cities like Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to buy PS5 Slim editions and accessories through the platform. According to BlinkIt CEO Albinder Dhindsa, the convenience of this collaboration is that deliveries can be completed within 10 minutes.
PS5 Slim Details and Pricing

The PS5 Slim Digital edition comes at ₹37,490, and the regular version at ₹47,490. Still, for Indian gamers waiting to use their PS5 Pro, hope lies in wait since it can’t be released here for using the unallocated 6GHz band spectrum for its WiFi 7.
This funny situation proves modern e-commerce’s ability of laughter and innovation and, through that, adds more layers of reputation for BlinkIt.

New Rival Emerges In Quick Commerce: Indian Firm Challenges Zepto, Blinkit, And Swiggy After Amazon’s Entry

November 27, 2024, 4:44 pm

In a bold move into the competitive quick commerce market, PhonePe’s Pincode platform is now piloting rapid delivery services in select areas, including Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Varanasi. Reports by Inc42 indicate that the service guarantees delivery of groceries and other products within 10-20 minutes.

Pincode leverages its delivery partners, Shadowfax and Loadshare, to fulfill orders. Unlike conventional quick commerce models relying on dark stores, Pincode connects local kirana stores with customers, adopting an asset-light marketplace approach. This eliminates warehouse costs, benefiting both retailers and consumers. During the pilot, customers can order groceries, personal care items, and sports goods within the promised timeframe.

Evolution of the Pincode App

Launched in Bengaluru in April 2023, Pincode initially operated on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) as a buyer-centric platform. It offered various products, including groceries and apparel. However, the app has since pivoted, exiting categories like fashion and electronics to develop its independent marketplace.

This strategic shift aligns with Pincode’s entry into the quick commerce space, positioning it as a competitor to players like Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket.

Competition Heats Up

The quick commerce sector has witnessed aggressive investments. Zepto raised over $1.3 billion in 2024, while Swiggy expanded Instamart using IPO funds. Similarly, Zomato allocated Rs. 2,137 crore for Blinkit’s infrastructure. Pincode’s model resembles Dunzo’s earlier marketplace strategy, offering an alternative to inventory-heavy dark store setups.

Also Read: Swiggy Shares Drop Nearly 6% on Second Day of Trading, Market Valuation Falls by Rs5,842 Crore

Amazon’s “Tez” and Reliance’s JioMart

Amazon is also set to launch its quick commerce service, code-named Tez, by early 2025. Meanwhile, Reliance’s JioMart pilots in Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru signal Mukesh Ambani’s quiet entry into this booming market, targeting key competitors.

As the quick commerce sector grows, projected to reach $7 billion by 2024, players like Pincode are shaking up traditional grocery delivery while challenging industry heavyweights.

Delhi Man’s Dhanteras Shock: ‘I Literally Cried’ After Blinkit Delivers Half The Gold Ordered

October 29, 2024, 5:27 pm

A Delhi resident recently shared his disappointing experience on social media after ordering gold from Blinkit during the Dhanteras festival, only to receive less gold than expected. Mohit Jain, who intended to purchase a 1-gram Mata Lakshmi gold coin and a 1-gram silver coin, both prepaid, was surprised to find a discrepancy upon delivery.

As Jain was not home to receive the items, he entrusted his younger brother with the OTP required for verification. When he returned 20 minutes later, he found that the delivered item was a 0.5-gram Malabar gold coin with a rose design, instead of the 1-gram Mata Lakshmi gold coin he had ordered.

Attempting to return the incorrect item, Jain was further disappointed to find the return window had already closed. “I can’t contact any support executive,” he explained, describing his frustration with Blinkit’s customer service.

In his efforts to seek assistance, he called the delivery agent and shared, “I literally cried while talking to him,” adding that the agent even had photos of the coin before delivery but still could not help. “He said there was nothing he could do even after knowing he delivered the wrong item.”

Feeling disheartened, Jain noted it would be his “first and last time” ordering an expensive item from Blinkit, as he found himself only able to interact with AI bots, with no real customer support. Jain also mentioned he has CCTV footage as proof of the wrong item being delivered, underscoring his disappointment with Blinkit’s lack of accountability.

‘Blinkit Gold Coin Scam’, Man Received 0.5 GM Gold Coin Instead Of 1 GM Of This Brand

October 29, 2024, 3:55 pm

A Delhi resident, Mohit Jain, has publicly expressed frustration after claiming to have been “scammed” by Blinkit, a popular quick-commerce platform, when he ordered precious metals. Jain, who ordered a one-gram gold coin and a ten-gram silver coin from the Gurgaon-based platform, discovered that instead of the one-gram gold coin he paid for, he received a 0.5-gram version. His disappointment with Blinkit’s response led him to voice his concerns on social media.

Incident Unfolds with Order Mix-Up

Jain shared that the mix-up became apparent once he returned home shortly after his brother had received the delivery. Despite his specific order for a one-gram Mata Lakshmi gold coin, he found that a 0.5-gram rose design coin had been delivered instead. Immediately attempting to resolve the issue, Jain contacted Blinkit’s customer support, only to be met with automated responses as the complaint window had closed within 20 minutes of delivery. His CCTV footage, as well as pictures of the delivered item, reportedly support his claim of an incorrect delivery.

HAVE A LOOK AT THE VIRAL POST:

Got scammed by blinkit
I ordered 1 gm gold coin from blinkit, along with the 1gm silver coin. It was all prepaid. I wasn’t there at home to receive the order, so I gave the otp to my younger brother to get it received. After 20 mins I reached home and saw wrong item was… pic.twitter.com/N15wSfIhpt

— Mohit Jain (@MohitJa30046159) October 29, 2024

Customer Support Complaints Surface

Frustrated by his inability to speak with a live representative, Jain shared screenshots of the automated customer support messages he received. Blinkit’s customer support offered an apology and asked for feedback but closed the complaint window, leaving Jain without a resolution. On social media, others echoed his dissatisfaction, with some warning against ordering high-value items from the platform. Another user criticized Blinkit’s customer support as ineffective, calling it “a joke.”

Jain’s experience has garnered significant attention, as users tag the platform in hopes of gaining a response.

Distributors Demand Investigation Into Blinkit, Swiggy, Zepto For “Unfair Pricing Practices”

October 20, 2024, 10:27 pm

India’s largest retail distributor association has requested the antitrust authority to investigate three quick commerce companies—Zomato’s Blinkit, Swiggy, and Zepto—over allegations of predatory pricing, according to a letter released on Sunday. Quick commerce has become a popular trend in India, with firms promising rapid delivery of a variety of items, including groceries and electronics, within 10 minutes, posing a challenge to established e-commerce giants like Amazon.

In a letter dated October 18, the All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation (AICPDF), representing 400,000 retail distributors for major brands such as Nestle and Hindustan Unilever, accused quick commerce companies of engaging in predatory pricing by offering significant discounts and selling below cost to attract customers.

Zomato’s Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy, which operates the Instamart delivery service and is backed by SoftBank, did not respond to inquiries from Reuters.

The letter stated that many consumer goods companies are directly partnering with quick commerce firms to expand their market reach, thereby marginalizing traditional salespeople who have historically delivered orders to shops. Such practices create an environment where “it is impossible for traditional retailers to compete or survive,” the letter emphasized, urging the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to “implement protective measures for traditional distributors and small retailers to safeguard their interests.”

The CCI has the authority to initiate investigations if it finds merit in the complaints. The CCI’s investigation unit previously discovered that larger e-commerce platforms, including Amazon and Flipkart, violated local laws regarding predatory pricing, a claim the companies have denied.

As quick commerce continues to grow, Zomato’s shares have doubled this year, and Swiggy is set to launch its IPO valued at over $1 billion in the coming weeks.

Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Apparel Return And Exchange Service in Select Cities

October 16, 2024, 11:34 pm

Zomato-owned quick commerce platform Blinkit has launched a new feature that allows customers to return and exchange clothing and footwear within just 10 minutes in select Indian cities, addressing common issues related to size and fit. Blinkit’s CEO Albinder Dhindsa announced this initiative on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

“What are the details of Blinkit’s new apparel return and exchange feature?” he wrote. “Customers can initiate a return/exchange in case of a size or fit issue with the delivered product. This solves a crucial problem of size anxiety for categories like clothing and footwear. The cool part – return or exchange will happen within 10 minutes of raising a request!”

Currently, this service has been rolled out in cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune, after being tested in Delhi-NCR for several weeks. More cities are expected to be added soon, although the platform has not released specific details about the return and exchange process.

Introducing Easy Returns on Blinkit!

Customers can initiate a return/ exchange in case of a size or fit issue with the delivered product. This solves a crucial problem of size anxiety for categories like clothing and footwear.

The cool part – return or exchange will happen… pic.twitter.com/iWUcoPaOLj

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) October 15, 2024

Blinkit offers a variety of apparel from brands like Adidas, Boldfit, Jockey, Liberty, Paragon, US Polo Association, and XYXX. This new feature is a response to growing competition from companies like Zepto, Swiggy’s Instamart, Flipkart’s Minutes, and BigBasket’s BBNow, all competing in the quick commerce market, valued at around $5.5 billion. Currently, Zepto offers a 72-hour exchange policy for damaged or defective apparel items only.

This Popular Delivery App Introduces a ‘Café’ for Quick Chai and Samosas in Just 10 Minutes!

October 15, 2024, 4:46 pm

Blinkit, a company owned by Zomato, is preparing to launch a ‘Café’ feature designed for speedy snack deliveries. This new service will allow food lovers to enjoy their favorite samosas and chai in under 10 minutes, all from the comfort of their homes. The initiative caters to enthusiasts seeking convenient munching options.

Pilot Launch in Selected Cities

According to sources, the café feature will be introduced in pilot mode in select cities later this month, ensuring rapid deliveries of fast food items like sandwiches, chai, samosas, and more. This move positions Blinkit to compete with rival services like Zepto Café and Swiggy Café.

Competing with Established Players

Zepto initially launched its café feature in Mumbai last year and plans to expand its reach. This delivery app offers breakfast items, including coffee, tea, samosas, and croissants, delivered right to your door.

In contrast, Swiggy has also introduced its café feature to meet customer demands, allowing users to order food with a promise of delivery in just 15 minutes. Recently, Swiggy launched ‘Bolt’ in six cities, focusing on delivering a selection of dishes within a 2 km radius from popular restaurants such as Chaayos, Eatfit, and Starbucks.

Reinforcing Blinkit’s 10-Minute Delivery Strategy

The new Blinkit initiative aims to not only compete with its rivals but also emphasize its commitment to a 10-minute food delivery strategy. The delivery app plans to gradually expand its menu to include popular dishes like pasta and noodles, based on user feedback. Additionally, Blinkit is making significant strides in smaller cities.

This initiative underscores Blinkit’s efforts to thrive in a competitive market while providing easy access to snack items in less than 10 minutes, capitalizing on the rising demand for convenient food options.

Men Receives Women Underwear Instead Of Men’s Underwear From Blinkit: ‘Wear It..’

September 9, 2024, 11:28 am

A surprising mix-up occurred when a man from Himachal Pradesh ordered a set of men’s underwear from Blinkit, only to receive women’s panties instead. The error, which has gained significant attention on social media, highlights a major delivery issue with the quick commerce platform.

The Order Mix-Up

Priyansh, the customer, was baffled when his order arrived in a plain brown paper bag containing three women’s panties instead of the Jockey men’s underwear he had purchased. The delivery mishap prompted Priyansh to contact Blinkit for a return or refund, but his attempts were unsuccessful. Frustrated, he took to social media to share his experience, where his post quickly went viral, amassing over 3.3 million views.

HAVE A LOOK AT THE POST:

Hello @letsblinkit wtf is this i have ordered jockey male underwears and you have send me this

Now how to return this i have reported this to your help center still no return or refund had not done yet pic.twitter.com/4VcjQNMU5V

— Priyansh (@priyansh_who) September 7, 2024

Priyansh’s initial tweet read: “Hello Blinkit, WTF is this? I ordered Jockey male underwear and received this. Now how to return this? I have reported this to your help centre, but still no return or refund has been processed.”

A Humorous Twist

Despite the lack of resolution from Blinkit, Priyansh decided to make the best of the situation. In a follow-up post, he shared a photo showing that he had tried on one of the panties, humorously noting the missing black panty from the set. This cheeky update further captured the internet’s attention.

Social Media Reactions

The viral post sparked a flurry of comments from amused and critical users alike. Some joked about the fast delivery service, while others expressed frustration over the difficulties in reaching customer care.

One user quipped, “Blinkit, don’t be in such a hurry!” referencing the company’s promise of quick deliveries. Another commented, “The returns process is very bad; I am unable to reach customer care and the automated system lacks proper options.”

Others made light of the situation, with one suggesting, “Assume it is v-shaped briefs for men. Close your eyes and wear it,” and another noting, “Bro finally did jugaad” (a term for making do with what you have).

Blinkit’s Return Policy

According to Blinkit’s website, products that are delivered are generally non-returnable, non-replaceable, and non-exchangeable unless they are damaged, defective, expired, or incorrectly delivered. In such cases, returns or exchanges are only processed if expressly permitted by the product’s return/exchange policy.

The incident underscores the need for improved accuracy and customer service in the quick commerce industry, especially as companies strive to meet the demands of their fast-paced delivery promises.

Instant Passport Photos: Blinkit’s Latest Service Brings 10-Minute Delivery To Your Door!

August 10, 2024, 5:13 pm

Passport-size photos can now be delivered to your doorstep in just 10 minutes, thanks to Blinkit’s latest feature.

The quick-commerce giant has rolled out this service for its customers in Delhi and Gurugram.

Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa announced this update on X

Ever needed passport-sized photos for visa documentation, admit cards or rent agreements at the last-minute?

Starting today, Blinkit customers in Delhi and Gurugram can get passport photos delivered in 10 minutes!

We’re excited to roll out this new service and look forward to… pic.twitter.com/tocV9NRlzV

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) August 9, 2024

“We’re thrilled to introduce this new service and eagerly await your feedback to help us refine it. We plan to expand it gradually to all the cities we serve,” Dhindsa shared on X.

This feature is designed to streamline the process of obtaining passport photos quickly and conveniently.

Customers can either upload a photo or take one with their phones. The app will automatically remove the background and crop the image to the proper size. Users can select between 8 and 32 photos, which will be delivered in an envelope.

The process is super easy too –

1. Upload your photo or click one with your phone

2. We’ll automatically remove the background and crop your image to the right size!

3. Choose how many you want (8, 16 or 32 prints) and order. It'll get delivered in this good looking envelope… pic.twitter.com/sbIOKjo71R

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) August 9, 2024

Bengaluru Woman Becomes Blinkit Delivery Agent For A Day, Sparks Major Changes

August 8, 2024, 3:50 pm

A Bengaluru woman’s hands-on experience as a Blinkit delivery agent has sparked significant operational changes at the company. Sneha, a Bengaluru resident, spent a day working as a delivery agent to gain insight into Blinkit’s rapid 10-minute delivery system. Her detailed feedback, shared in a now-viral thread on X, has attracted over 1 million views and caught the attention of Blinkit’s top officials.

On Sunday, Sneha delivered orders around Indiranagar while documenting her experience on social media. Her post highlighted several issues within the company’s operations. “Signed up to be a Blinkit delivery partner and delivered a few orders around Indiranagar today and it was amazing. Earned some money, talked to a few riders got to know how the whole system works,” she wrote.

signed up to be a blinkit delivery partner and delivered few orders around indiranagar today?

and damn it was amazing
earned some money, talked to few riders

got to know how the whole system works

but blinkit product team ig it’s high time for you revisit the app ? pic.twitter.com/wB8uJWoMF0

— Sneha (@itspsneha) August 4, 2024

The feedback quickly drew a response from Blinkit’s founder, Albinder Dhindsa. “Thanks for the feedback Sneha! Good points here. We will pick these up, fix and report back soon,” Dhindsa acknowledged.

Sneha’s critique included concerns over “gimmick” SMS messages that promised high earnings and bonuses to delivery agents. She pointed out that these messages seemed misleading, as earning the promised amount was challenging. She also expressed confusion over how to claim the advertised bonus and demanded clarity on Blinkit’s free medical insurance policy for delivery agents.

Additionally, Sneha highlighted the lack of proper facilities at Blinkit stores, noting inadequate seating and drinking water provisions. She shared a photograph of a messy store and called for improvements. Her post also criticized the durability of the paper bags used for deliveries, suggesting they often tore under the weight of larger orders.

In response to Sneha’s viral feedback, Blinkit’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Sajal Gupta outlined five key changes the company has since implemented. These reforms include enhanced seating arrangements at Blinkit stores and other operational adjustments aimed at improving conditions for delivery agents.

Sneha’s initiative and Blinkit’s subsequent reforms underscore the crucial role of direct feedback in enhancing workplace conditions and transparency.

Zomato’s Deepinder Goyal Becomes Billionaire After Blinkit’s Growth Boosts Zomato Shares

July 15, 2024, 1:50 pm

Zomato’s co-founder and CEO Deepinder Goyal has become a billionaire after Zomato shares surged over 300% since last year, reaching a current market cap of ₹1.8 lakh crore, Moneycontrol reported. Goyal, 41, is now India’s richest professional manager with his net worth surpassing ₹8,300 crore.

Who is Deepinder Goyal and How Was Zomato Founded?

Deepinder Goyal, who comes from a middle-class background, co-founded Zomato in 2008, initially calling it ‘Foodiebay.’ He started the company with Pankaj Chaddah while they were both analysts at Bain & Company. Both Goyal and Chaddah are graduates of IIT Delhi, with Goyal specializing in Mathematics and Computing.

Foodiebay quickly became the largest restaurant directory in Delhi-NCR within nine months and was renamed Zomato two years later. The company attracted investments from Info Edge India, Sequoia, Vy Capital, Singapore-based Temasek, and Alibaba’s Ant Financial.

Zomato became a unicorn in the financial year 2018-19 after a $200 million investment from Ant Financial. That same year, Pankaj Chaddah left the company. Today, Goyal holds 3.95 crore shares in Zomato, representing a 4.24% stake in the company, which also owns quick commerce giant Blinkit.

Why Has Zomato’s Share Price Grown So Much?

The significant rise of Blinkit has been a major factor in Zomato’s share price rally. According to Moneycontrol, a recent Goldman Sachs note highlighted that Blinkit now has a higher implied value than Zomato’s core food delivery business. Blinkit is currently valued at $13 billion. Zomato acquired Blinkit in 2022 for $568 million, having already owned about 10% of the company since the year before. Blinkit is now growing faster than competitors like Swiggy’s Instamart and Zepto.

Zomato’s share prices hit an all-time high of ₹232 on the Bombay Stock Exchange after the company announced a platform fee hike of ₹6 per order in markets like Delhi and Bangalore, as reported by the Economic Times. As of July 15 at 11:45 A.M, Zomato shares are trading at ₹227.75, a 2.38% growth from the previous day.

Blinkit Adds Idli-Dosa Batter After Chennai Man’s Feedback | Viral

July 11, 2024, 3:45 pm

Have you ever felt the frustration of searching for a specific item from a particular brand on a quick commerce platform, only to come up empty-handed? If so, you’re not alone. A man from Chennai experienced this exact issue and decided to get creative. He tagged the platform’s CEO on social media, humorously asking, “Why are you making me spend my money with your competitors?” Within a week, the product was added to the platform’s inventory.

“Hey Albinder, the most popular idli and dosa batter brand in Chennai is Thaayar, and you don’t have them on Blinkit. Why are you forcing me to give my money to your competition?” wrote X user Narayanan Hariharan, sharing a screenshot of the app.

Check out his post on X here:

Hey @albinder, the most popular idli and dosa batter brand in Chennai is Thaayar, and you don’t have them on @letsblinkit. Why are you forcing me to give my money to your competition? pic.twitter.com/VZZvSU9BGl

— Narayanan Hariharan (@narayananh) July 5, 2024

Dhindsa responded, saying, “Checking this – will let you know once it’s live.”

Checking this – will let you know once it’s live

— Albinder Dhindsa (@albinder) July 5, 2024

Six days later, Dhindsa announced that the product was now available on the app. He wrote, “Narayanan Hariharan, Thaayar batter is now live in your area and in most parts of Chennai serviceable by Blinkit. Thank you for flagging this.” He also shared a screenshot of the app displaying the batter.

Hariharan expressed his gratitude towards Dhindsa, writing, “If you want something, ask for it. Thanks a lot, Albinder Dhindsa!”

If you want something, ask for it.

Thanks a lot, @albinder! pic.twitter.com/TWms6yidL7

— Narayanan Hariharan (@narayananh) July 11, 2024

Blinkit’s Thoughtful Act Brightens Hospitalized Customer’s Day. Here’s How!

June 30, 2024, 2:34 pm

Blinkit, an online grocery delivery platform, received widespread praise on social media for a small yet impactful gesture noticed by a customer. When ordering items from a hospital, the customer was moved to find a message directly from Blinkit on their user interface: “We noticed your order is from a hospital. Sending you and your dear ones our warmest wishes.” This thoughtful acknowledgment made a significant impression on the customer.

In a heartfelt post, the customer, Prabhat Motwani, expressed gratitude for Blinkit’s gesture, noting its potential to uplift the spirits of individuals enduring hospital stays. Motwani highlighted the significance of such gestures, emphasizing their capacity to provide comfort during challenging times.

Motwani’s message underscored his admiration for companies like Blinkit that prioritize genuine care for their customers beyond mere transactions. He commended Blinkit for demonstrating compassion and fostering meaningful connections with their users. Alongside his message, Motwani shared a screenshot of Blinkit’s homepage displaying the thoughtful message, showcasing the company’s commitment to customer-centric values.

Take a look at the post here:

Since its posting on June 30, this post has garnered nearly 6,000 likes and continues to attract more. It has also received numerous likes and comments from users sharing their experiences.

One person recounted, “I remember ordering from Swiggy when I was in the hospital during restaurant closures. The restaurant owner personally called me, requesting patience as they were short on delivery personnel. Eventually, someone from their team delivered my order on their way home.”

Another shared, “A few weeks ago, I was hospitalized and ordered items from Blinkit. Due to hospital security, the delivery person couldn’t reach my room initially. However, after a phone call where he heard my condition, he persisted and eventually convinced security to escort him to my room. Before leaving, he offered comforting words that brought tears to my eyes. It’s truly the small gestures that mean the most.”

Commenting on the trend, a third individual remarked, “Indian companies like Zomato and Blinkit are increasingly prioritizing customer-centric initiatives. These acts set a high standard and deserve appreciation. Here’s hoping more companies will follow suit and enhance customer experiences.”

FSSAI Finds Blinkit Warehouse In Telangana Violating Food Safety Standards

June 7, 2024, 12:59 pm

The Food & Safety Standards Association of India (FSSAI) conducted an inspection at a Blinkit warehouse in the state and discovered that the space was “disorganized, unhygienic,” and in violation of several food handling and storage regulations. Further actions are pending.

On June 6, the Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana, announced on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) that a task force had inspected the Blinkit warehouse at Devar Yamjal in the Medchal-Malkajgiri district of the state.

Violations Found

The Commissioner noted various violations, including that the premises were “very disorganized, unhygienic, and dusty at storage racks.”

Additionally, there was no Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) trainee present at the site. The food handlers were not wearing headgear, gloves, or aprons, and did not possess medical fitness certificates.

The team also seized suspected infested whole farm ragi flour and toor dal worth ₹52,000 and sent samples to a lab for testing. The commissioner stated that a notice regarding the investigation would be issued, and further action would be taken accordingly.

Notices to be Issued

The team also discovered that Whole Farm Congruence Trade and Services’ license did not comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act), regarding the address mentioned on the label. A notice will be sent regarding this issue.

Additionally, Kamakshi Foods’ license was found to be expired, leading to the seizure of products from the company, including suji, raw peanut butter, maida, poha, besan, and bajra, worth Rs. 30,000.

A Blinkit spokesperson informed the media that they are collaborating with their warehouse partner to address the issues.

“We take safety and hygiene standards very seriously. We are closely working with our warehouse partner and the Food safety department to implement corrective actions from the findings,” the Blinkit spokesperson stated.

Blinkit Offers Free Dhaniya: Solving Indian Moms Online Vegetable Delivery Problem

May 16, 2024, 6:51 pm

Blinkit, a popular online grocery app among Indian consumers, has recently introduced a new feature that has delighted many customers, especially moms. The app will now offer complimentary coriander (Dhaniya) with vegetable purchases, a move that reflects the traditional practice of local vegetable vendors in India.

The decision to provide free coriander came after a customer shared on social media about his mother’s surprise at having to pay for coriander while ordering vegetables on the app. Ankit Sawant’s post on X (formerly Twitter) caught the attention of Blinkit’s CEO, Albinder Dhindsa, who promptly responded by assuring that the feature would be implemented.

Mom got a mini heart attack because she had to pay for dhaniya on Blinkit.@albinder – mom is suggesting that you should bundle it for free with certain amount of veggies.

— Ankit Sawant (@SatanAtWink) May 15, 2024

Following the customer’s suggestion, Blinkit officially launched the ‘free Dhaniya’ feature, thanking Sawant’s mother for the idea. Dhindsa also mentioned that the company would continue to refine the feature based on customer feedback in the coming weeks.

Traditionally, local vegetable vendors in India often include complimentary coriander and green chilies (mirchi) with purchases. However, this practice had not been adopted by online grocery platforms until now, making Blinkit’s move noteworthy.

While Blinkit did not specify the minimum order value or quantity of vegetables required to receive the complimentary coriander, a test order revealed that customers in the Delhi NCR region would need to purchase vegetables worth at least Rs 500 to be eligible for 100 grams of free coriander.

Customers have expressed delight at the new feature, with many praising Blinkit for listening to their concerns and taking swift action. Some customers have even suggested that Blinkit should consider offering other complimentary herbs and vegetables, such as curry leaves and green chilies, in the future.

Zomato boosts platform fee to Rs 5 per order, up 25%

April 22, 2024, 1:41 pm

Zomato, a leading food delivery platform, has raised its platform fee by 25% to Rs 5 per order starting from April 20, according to the information available on the Zomato app. The platform fee, a flat charge per order, has been increased across key markets such as the NCR, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Lucknow.

This came after Zomato last increased the platform fee on January 1, raising it from Rs 3 to Rs 4 per order. The recent hike to Rs 5 is expected to contribute significantly to the company’s earnings, given its daily order volume ranging from 2.0 to 2.2 million orders.

Zomato’s main competitor, Swiggy, also charges a platform fee of Rs 5 on food delivery orders. The platform fee is in addition to the delivery charge, which is waived for customers enrolled in Zomato Gold, the company’s loyalty program offering benefits like discounts and free delivery.

Notably, Zomato’s quick-commerce platform, Blinkit, charges a handling fee of Rs 2 on every order.

The increase in platform fees could help Zomato offset financial challenges, including a substantial tax demand exceeding Rs 402 crore from goods and services tax authorities.

Zomato Intercity Deliveries

Zomato has suspended its intercity delivery service called Legends. Launched in 2022, Legends aimed to deliver food from select restaurants across cities but later shifted focus to delivering pre-stocked items with shorter delivery timelines. However, the service did not gain significant traction among consumers and faced legal issues.

The revamping of Legends follows Zomato’s recent quarterly financial performance, reporting a third consecutive profit of Rs 138 crore for the October-December period. The company’s operating revenue during the same quarter grew by 69% year-on-year to Rs 3,288 crore.

Despite these operational changes and financial adjustments, Zomato continues to face challenges such as legal disputes and evolving consumer preferences, shaping its strategies in the competitive food delivery and quick-commerce landscape.