11 Realities: A Blinkit vs Zepto Comparison

3. Fulfilment model: dark stores and inventory strategy

Behind every ten-minute delivery is a small warehouse that sits close to customers. Both Blinkit and Zepto rely on "dark stores"—micro-fulfilment units stocked to serve nearby orders quickly. Blinkit’s larger count of dark stores gives it reach and the ability to keep a wide SKU spread near many neighbourhoods. Zepto emphasises hyperlocal placement and has reportedly invested in automation and efficient picking inside these stores to shave seconds off each order. The practical effect is two-fold: first, better stocking reduces cancelled orders, and second, optimised picking reduces rider turnaround times. Algorithms predict local demand so stores carry fast-moving items, but this can create trade-offs; a dark store tuned for milk and bread might not stock a charger cable you suddenly need. Recent reporting also notes Zepto adjusting dark store operations ahead of fundraising moves, suggesting operational tweaks are part of a larger strategy. For shoppers, fulfilment design explains whether an app can offer both speed and variety—or whether it must choose one.