Bhavish Aggarwal's company OLA is preparing to start delivering groceries using the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), according to media reports. The service could begin soon.
The grocery delivery market in India is growing fast, especially in metro cities like Delhi-NCR. Apps such as Blinkit and Big Basket are gaining popularity, allowing people to easily order goods from home using a phone call or app.
Ola previously also entered the market
Ola previously ventured into grocery delivery back in 2015 with a standalone online store in Bangalore. This year, they also launched a food delivery app. The concept was to have cab drivers deliver groceries between 9 am and 11 pm. However, the service was discontinued a few months after its launch.
Following that, in 2012, Ola ventured into grocery delivery in Mumbai and Bangalore with Ola Dash, operating approximately 15 stores. However, the service was abruptly discontinued after a year.
The Government of India's initiative, Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), aims to boost the e-commerce network and ensure fair competition. It's particularly beneficial for small businesses that lack the financial resources to compete with larger market players, offering them a platform to level the playing field.