These case studies highlight real challenges faced by businesses trying to join quick-commerce platforms and how proper compliance preparation helped them succeed.
Case Study 1: Multi-State FMCG Brand
The Challenge
Sunrise Foods, a growing FMCG brand based in Pune, was rejected three times when attempting to onboard on Blinkit. They had warehouses in Maharashtra, Delhi, and Karnataka but only had their primary GST registration in Maharashtra.
The Solution
- APOB registrations obtained in Delhi and Karnataka
- Up-to-date GST returns filed for all locations
- Warehouse documentation properly linked to each APOB
The Result
- Onboarded on Blinkit within 2 weeks
- ₹32 lakh monthly revenue generated
- Expanded to Zepto and Instamart using the same compliance framework
Key Takeaway: Multi-state operations require proper APOB registration in each state where you maintain a warehouse.
Case Study 2: Local Bakery Chain
The Challenge
Sweet Delights, a bakery chain in Bangalore, wanted to expand through quick commerce. They held a valid GST registration but operated multiple locations under a single registration. Zepto rejected their application due to “improper business place registration.”
The Solution
- Separate VPOB registrations for each bakery outlet
- FSSAI licences updated to match each address
- Business-address documentation aligned across all records
The Result
- Listed on Zepto with five locations
- 40 % increase in overall sales within three months
- 30 % reduction in delivery costs compared to in-house delivery
Key Takeaway: Even single-city operations may require multiple place-of-business registrations if operating from different addresses.
Case Study 3: D2C Personal Care Brand
The Challenge
Herbal Essence Co. was selling successfully on its own website and Amazon but failed multiple attempts to join Instamart. Their warehouse address wasn’t registered as their place of business, and their third-party warehouse agreement lacked proper documentation.
The Solution
- Registered the warehouse address as an official place of business
- Formalised the third-party warehouse agreement
- Updated cosmetic-product licences with the correct address
The Result
- Onboarded on Instamart on first retry
- Expanded to three additional cities within six months
- Processes over 200 orders per day through quick commerce
Key Takeaway: Third-party warehousing requires proper documentation and registration as your place of business.
Case Study 4: Traditional Retailer Going Digital
The Challenge
Family Mart, a 30-year-old retailer with four stores in Delhi, wanted to join Amazon Fresh. Despite its legacy, its new GST registration was under six months old, leading to rejection.
The Solution
- Filed a minimum of three consecutive GST returns to build compliance history
- Registered their warehouse as an official place of business
- Linked established business records to the new GST registration
The Result
- Joined Amazon Fresh after completing three GST cycles
- Fulfils 150+ orders daily through the platform
- Expanded product range tailored for quick commerce
Key Takeaway: Even established businesses must build a documented GST-compliance history before acceptance.
Case Study 5: Organic Food Startup
The Challenge
Nature’s Basket, a new organic-food startup, lacked proper FSSAI licensing and place-of-business documentation, leading to rejections across all platforms.
The Solution
- Obtained FSSAI licence specific to their food processing unit
- Registered kitchen/processing unit as a place of business
- Developed compliant packaging per platform standards
- Secured organic-certification documentation
The Result
- Listed on Blinkit’s organic section
- Expanded to Zepto within three months
- Recognised as a model case for food startups
Key Takeaway: Food businesses must satisfy additional licensing and documentation beyond basic GST registration.
Common Success Patterns
- Proper Documentation: All paperwork in perfect order before applying
- Address Consistency: Identical addresses across every document
- Complete Compliance: No shortcuts on regulatory requirements
- Platform Understanding: Researched specific platform criteria in advance
- Preparation: Used our Q-Commerce Eligibility Checker prior to application
How The GST Co Helps Businesses Succeed
- GST Registration: Tailored setups for e-commerce and quick commerce
- APOB/VPOB Setup: Additional Place of Business registrations in all required states
- Documentation Alignment: Ensuring consistency across licences and registrations
- Platform Guidance: Platform-specific compliance advice
- Ongoing Compliance: Regular filings and status monitoring
Your Path to Q-Commerce Success
Don’t let compliance issues delay your quick-commerce journey. Use our Q-Commerce Eligibility Checker today to identify any gaps in your business setup, then work with our experts to address them efficiently. Preparation is key—complete all requirements before applying to ensure a smooth onboarding experience.