The rapid rise of instant delivery services has reshaped consumer behavior, and apps like Zepto have taken the lead in the quick-commerce revolution. With delivery times under 10 minutes and hyper-local fulfillment models, Zepto has set a new benchmark for urban convenience.

If you're planning to enter the Q-commerce space, this guide walks you through everything you need to build a quick commerce app like Zepto, from must-have features and technology stack to cost, challenges, and choosing the right development partner.

Why Quick-Commerce Apps Are in High Demand

The modern consumer values speed, convenience, and real-time availability. Quick-commerce (Q-commerce) meets these expectations by offering:

• Delivery in 10–20 minutes
• Micro-warehouses or dark stores close to high-demand zones
• AI-enabled inventory and route optimization
• Seamless mobile UX for instant order placement

According to industry insights, the Q-commerce market is expected to surpass $72 billion globally by 2025. This makes now the perfect time to build your own on-demand delivery app like Zepto.

Business Model of Zepto & Similar Q-Commerce Apps

Before building your app, understand the business model:

• Hyperlocal Fulfillment: Use of dark stores located in high-demand areas
• Inventory-Based or Aggregator: Choose between owning inventory or partnering with local retailers
• Revenue Streams: Include delivery fees, surge pricing, in-app ads, subscription models, and seller commissions

Core Features to Include in a Zepto-Like App

To compete with market leaders, your app must offer a seamless experience across multiple touchpoints.
A breakdown by user roles-

1. Customer App Features

• Account signup via mobile/email
• Smart search and category filters
• Real-time inventory visibility
• Delivery time estimates
• Multiple payment gateways (UPI, cards, wallets)
• Live order tracking with GPS
• Ratings and feedback system

2. Delivery Agent App Features

• Task management and order queue
• Optimized delivery routing
• Earnings dashboard
• In-app chat with customers/support
• Emergency assistance button

3. Admin Dashboard

• Order and user management
• Inventory tracking
• Real-time analytics and reporting
• Vendor and delivery partner onboarding
• Promotional campaigns and discounts setup

ll Also Read - How to Build a Grocery Delivery App Like Blinkit: Features, Cost & Roadmap ll

Advanced Functionalities to Stay Competitive

To outperform, consider these advanced capabilities:

• AI-Based Personalization: Offer product recommendations
• Voice Search: Enable voice ordering
• Multi-Warehouse Integration: Improve delivery efficiency
• Instant Reordering: For recurring groceries
• Dark Store Management Module: Real-time stock updates for warehouses

Tech Stack for Building a Quick-Commerce App Like Zepto

Choose the right technologies for performance, scalability, and security.

• Frontend (Mobile App): Flutter / React Native (for cross-platform)
• Backend: Node.js / Django / Laravel
• Database: MongoDB / PostgreSQL
• Real-Time Tracking: Google Maps API, Firebase
• Payment Gateway: Razorpay, Stripe, PayPal
• Cloud Infrastructure: AWS / Google Cloud

Cost to Build a Quick-Commerce App Like Zepto

The cost of developing an app for a Zepto-like quick-commerce platform depends on various factors, such as the app's complexity, number of user roles, tech stack, and development partner’s location.
A breakdown of cost levels:

Basic Quick-Commerce App (MVP)

Cost: $15,000–$35,000 above
Ideal For: Startups aiming for fast market entry with limited features
Includes:

• User app with product browsing, cart, and checkout
• Delivery agent module with basic order tracking
• Admin panel for order and inventory control
• Core integrations (payment gateway, push notifications)
• Android-only or cross-platform basic version
• Tech Stack: Flutter or React Native, Firebase, Node.js backend

Intermediate Quick-Commerce App

Cost: $35,000–$55,000 above
Ideal For: Small-to-mid-size retailers expanding their digital reach
Includes:

• Separate apps for users, delivery partners, and store managers
• Real-time order tracking with geolocation
• Inventory and warehouse management
• Promo engine (offers, coupons, referral)
• Multi-platform support (Android & iOS) Tech Stack: Flutter/React Native, Node.js, MongoDB, Google Maps API

Advanced Zepto-Like App

Cost: $55,000–$75,000 above
Ideal For: Enterprises or VC-funded startups looking to scale across regions
Includes:

• AI-based product recommendations
• Voice search, live delivery status, and smart notifications
• Multi-store and dark warehouse management
• Real-time analytics dashboard for the admin
• Loyalty points, subscription models, and advanced user insights
• Full integration with third-party APIs and cloud hosting Tech Stack: React Native, Node.js, PostgreSQL, Redis, AWS, Firebase, AI/ML modules

Challenges in Q-Commerce App Development

• Real-Time Inventory Syncing
• Last-Mile Delivery Logistics
• Maintaining Low Turnaround Time
• Warehouse & Delivery Partner Coordination
• Data Privacy and Scalability

Overcoming these requires a strong backend architecture and collaboration with an experienced Quick commerce app development company.

Why Choose IMG Global Infotech?

IMG Global Infotech specializes in building scalable, high-performance, quick-commerce, and instant delivery apps that fit your business model. From concept to launch, our team delivers:

• Customized UI/UX design
• Agile development process
• Real-time tracking and inventory modules
• Ongoing maintenance and support

Final Thoughts

As quick-commerce reshapes the future of online shopping, building your Zepto-like instant delivery app is a smart, future-ready investment. Focus on speed, user experience, inventory visibility, and robust logistics for long-term success.