United States (USA) Quick Commerce Market Overview, 2029

The quick commerce market in the United States, often known as q-commerce, refers to the rapid delivery of items from local warehouses or businesses to consumers, typically within one to two hours. This industry has grown significantly in recent years, driven by rising demand for convenience and rapid pleasure. The origins of swift commerce can be traced back to the early 2000s, when e-commerce companies such as Amazon pioneered speedy delivery services. However, the notion gained traction in the late 2010s with the rise of firms focussing solely on ultra-fast delivery. Technological innovation and severe rivalry have characterised the development of the fast commerce market. The development of mobile apps and advanced logistics solutions has enabled businesses to optimise delivery routes and manage inventory more effectively. Compliance in the fast commerce sector requires navigating a complicated landscape of local, state, and federal regulations. Companies must follow labour laws, especially those affecting gig workers, as well as health and safety standards, notably in the food industry. Also, there are legislative implications for data protection and privacy, particularly considering the vast amount of personal information obtained via mobile apps. The COVID-19 epidemic has considerably expedited the expansion of the rapid commerce industry. With lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, customers turned to online purchasing for both essential and non-essential items. This spike in demand drove businesses to quickly extend their operations and adapt to new consumer behaviours. However, it also highlighted issues such as supply chain disruptions and the burden on delivery staff, which businesses have had to address in order to maintain service standards and consumer happiness.

According to the research report, "USA Quick Commerce Market Outlook, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the USA quick commerce market is anticipated to add to more than USD 37 Billion by 2024–29. Its relevance stems from its ability to provide consumers with ease and rapid gratification, altering buying patterns and setting new expectations for service speed. The speedy delivery approach, which typically takes one to two hours, responds to the growing consumer need for on-demand services, which is driven by lifestyle changes and technology improvements. Projections show a significant increase in market size, driven by advances in logistics technology, increasing infrastructure investment, and the growing popularity of mobile commerce. The rise of dark stores and fulfilment centres in urban locations has permitted speedy delivery capabilities, allowing businesses to match consumers' increased demand for immediacy. The emphasis on sustainability is also growing, with many businesses implementing eco-friendly methods like electric delivery cars and decreased packaging waste to address environmental concerns. DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates initially dominated the food delivery market, but recent entries such as Gorillas, Getir, and Flink broadened the reach to include groceries and other everyday things. To ensure speedy response times, some corporations have used dark stores, which are small, centralised warehouses that only accept online purchases. Investments in AI and machine learning have also helped to improve delivery algorithms and the customer experience. Companies frequently partner with retailers, local establishments, and technology providers to improve their service offerings and reach. These collaborations not only boost market position but also stimulate industry-wide progress, guaranteeing that the rapid commerce sector remains dynamic and competitive.

The product types in the USA rapid commerce market are diverse, including groceries, stationary items, personal care products, and electronics. Groceries are the most popular segment in the rapid commerce market. Fresh produce, dairy, bakery items, and pantry essentials fall into this category because they are perishable and require prompt delivery. The demand for supermarket delivery increased during the COVID-19 epidemic and continues to rise as consumers prioritise convenience and safety. Companies like as Instacart and Amazon Fresh have emerged as important participants in this market, relying on their huge networks of fulfilment centres and local stores to provide fast and efficient service. Stationary items are a tiny but rising component of the rapid commerce market. These consist of office supplies, writing instruments, and paper items. Increased remote work and educational needs have fuelled the segment's rise. Companies such as Staples and Office Depot have begun to offer faster delivery options to suit this demand, albeit the market remains less significant than grocery. Personal care items such as toiletries, skincare products, and over-the-counter drugs have also acquired popularity in the rapid commerce industry. This category has grown as consumers seek convenience when restocking daily necessities. Companies such as Ulta Beauty and CVS are focussing on quick delivery of personal care products. Electronics, particularly phone accessories, headphones, and small devices, are a high-value section of rapid commerce. While not as popular as food, the desire for rapid access to electronic things is increasing.

In the US rapid commerce industry, payment options such as cash on delivery (COD) and online payments are critical, with each providing specific benefits and impacting consumer preferences and market dynamics. Online payment is the leading mode in the rapid commerce business, owing to its convenience, security, and efficiency. With the advent of mobile commerce and digital transactions, the majority of consumers now prefer to make payments online. This method comprises credit and debit cards, digital wallets (such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet), and bank transfers. The seamless integration of online payment systems into quick commerce platforms improves the user experience by offering a quick, safe, and contactless payment method. Biometric authentication and blockchain technologies are being integrated to improve security and speed transactions. Cash on delivery (COD), while less widespread in the United States than online payments, is nonetheless used by some rapid commerce platforms, notably in certain regions or for specific product categories. COD poses logistical problems, including the necessity for precise cash handling and greater risk for delivery personnel. Startups such as GoPuff, which specialises in convenience goods, and some local grocery delivery businesses occasionally provide COD to cater to a specific market segment.

Businesses in the USA rapid commerce industry operate under a variety of models, including application-based, hybrid, and website-based operations. Application-based operation is a prominent paradigm in the quick commerce sector, owing to the widespread usage of smartphones and mobile apps. This strategy involves businesses employing dedicated mobile applications to process orders, handle delivery, and provide customer service. The value of application-based operation stems from its capacity to provide a streamlined and user-friendly experience. Customers can effortlessly explore products, place orders, and track deliveries in real time using a single platform. Companies like DoorDash and Uber Eats demonstrate this paradigm by developing robust smartphone apps that allow for frictionless transactions and efficient delivery management. Hybrid operations include components of both app-based and website-based approaches, increasing flexibility and catering to a larger audience. This concept enables firms to operate via mobile applications while still keeping a functional website. The hybrid approach is vital because it accommodates a wide range of consumer preferences, enabling accessibility for individuals who prefer to browse and order on a website or through mobile apps. Companies such as Instacart and Postmates use hybrid models, providing both app-based and website-based platforms to maximise reach and ease. Website-based operations involve enterprises that largely use their websites to manage orders and deliver products. This strategy emphasises online presence and frequently incorporates e-commerce functions to provide a complete buying experience. Although less common in rapid commerce than app-based models, website-based operations are nevertheless important, especially for enterprises that cater to customers who prefer traditional online surfing.



Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Quick Commerce market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Food & Groceries
• Stationary
• Personal Care Items
• Small Electronics & Accessories
• Others (Pets, alcohol, gifts & flowers, Medicines)

By Payment Mode
• Cash on Delivery
• Online

By Technology
• Application Based Operation
• Hybrid Operation
• Website Based Operation

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Quick Commerce industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.