Dark Store Expansion in Tier 2 Cities: Where Quick Commerce Is Heading Next

Executive Summary

• Quick commerce has reached 408 cities across India, but the vast majority of Tier 2 cities have fewer than 10 dark stores - most have just 1-3, typically Blinkit.
• Blinkit is the dominant first mover in Tier 2 markets, often the only platform present; Zepto and Swiggy Instamart remain largely focused on Tier 1 cities.
• Cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, Indore, Chandigarh, and Coimbatore are emerging as Tier 2 quick commerce hubs with 30-70+ stores each.