The CCPA has advised e-commerce platforms to conduct self-audits for deceptive 'dark patterns' within three months and provide self-declarations. Notices have been issued to platforms violating dark pattern guidelines. A Joint Working Group is monitoring violations and suggesting consumer awareness programs, following the 2023 guidelines that specified 13 dark patterns.
Amazon is actively developing humanoid robots designed to revolutionize package delivery, potentially replacing human workers. The company is testing these robots at a dedicated facility, simulating real-world delivery scenarios using Rivian electric vans. These robots, powered by AI, could soon be deployed for actual deliveries, aiming to expedite the process and automate the last mile.
Medibuddy was founded by IIT Madras alumni Satish Kannan and Enbasekar Dinadayalane. Its shareholders include a Liechtenstein royal family fund and Quadria Capital, among others. The fund raise has attracted prominent Indian and global private equity firms, as per those familiar with the matter. The health tech firm matches patients with doctors, hospitals and diagnostic service providers.
Flipkart has received a lending licence from the Reserve Bank of India. This allows the e-commerce giant to offer loans directly to customers and sellers. Flipkart applied for the licence in 2022. The lending operation may start in a few months. Flipkart plans to lend through its e-commerce platform and fintech app. Walmart aims to take Flipkart public soon.
Despite ongoing losses, Morgan Stanley is optimistic about Swiggy's quick commerce venture, Instamart, citing a significant rise in gross order value. The brokerage firm anticipates Swiggy's strong financial position will enable it to withstand competition and maintain market share. They also project substantial growth in the quick commerce market by 2030, benefiting companies with existing infrastructure investments.
The BEUC filed a complaint against Shein with the European Commission, accusing the fast-fashion giant of using “dark patterns” to push excessive buying. These include pop-ups, countdowns, and gamification tactics. BEUC says such strategies fuel mass consumption. Shein claims compliance efforts are underway, but faces broader EU scrutiny and potential fines over consumer and digital regulation breaches.
A Kearney report indicates quick commerce growth largely cannibalizes other sales channels. Supermarkets and ecommerce offer bigger discounts. Marico aims to tailor portfolios to boost sales. Quick commerce contribution to ecommerce sales doubles yearly. It accounts for 3-6% of consumer goods firms' sales. Kearney projects threefold growth for quick commerce grocery market by 2027. Consumer companies expect continued segment growth.
India's top ecommerce firms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Meesho are internalising logistics, squeezing third-party logistics (3PL) providers and driving industry consolidation. Meesho's shift to its logistics arm Valmo impacts players like Delhivery, which acquired Ecom Express to stay competitive. As pricing pressure eases and Meesho's outsourcing plateaus, Delhivery eyes growth and improved margins in FY26.
KiranaPro, the grocery delivery startup, suffered a devastating cyberattack resulting in the complete deletion of its servers. CEO Deepak Ravindran confirmed the breach, stating that sensitive customer data, including payment details, was compromised. The attack, suspected to be carried out by a former employee, has halted operations and led to legal action.
Flipkart Investments divested its entire 6% stake in Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail (ABFRL) through block deals, amounting to Rs 583 crore. Following the sale, ABFRL's shares experienced a significant drop of nearly 11%. The transaction involved selling 7.31 crore equity shares at a discounted floor price of Rs 79.50 per share.
Meesho is broadening its personal care offerings by partnering with major brands like P&G India, HUL, and Himalaya, aiming to meet the rising demand in tier-2 and smaller Indian cities. The e-commerce platform reported significant growth in its 'Mall' vertical, attracting 3.2 crore shoppers in six months.
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