Vertically integrated mini-commercial spaces specifically for serving the Quick Commerce (QC) needs in every locality. Think lower floor for EV rentals and battery swapping stations; drive through windows for order pick-up and drop-offs on ground floor; and dark store ops and warehousing on floors above. More importantly, it is centered around logistics partners with quick service cafe, serviced restrooms, seating for in-house partners and facilities to rent power banks and rain jackets.
Why this is an important climate solution: The infrastructure that serves quick commerce is the same as what’s needed to enable circular commerce. No amount of down-stream solutions like smart bins can solve landfill problems. Having physical infrastructure locally is important to enable the local community to reuse, repurpose, recycle with help from their sellers, manufacturers and producers. Think sending back reusable containers like cosmetics, shampoos, prescription boxes, food, milk and beverage containers for reuse, refill and more - conveniently and affordably.
Why now: QC is yet to take its final form, as it evolves it’s essential it enables consumers to be more sustainable. With Instamart getting into retail and delivery partners going on strike in NCR recently - it is a sign. Residential property developers might like to co-develop such spaces that serve their own residents as well as the local community. Big Indian businesses might also like to compete in QC with a retail edge while diversifying energy investments into EV infra.
It needs to be spearheaded and in time. 