PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Application-based delivery platforms are affecting the business of long-established neighbourhood shops in Dehradun. Quick-commerce platforms along with food delivery apps which deliver groceries, vegetables and meals within minutes.
Shopkeeper Ayush Kishor said that the sales have dropped sharply, particularly during winter when footfall declines. “I employ two workers and have fixed expenses like salaries, taxes and electricity bills. The situation becomes tough when sales fall,” he said.
Another shopkeeper Aniket Mishra said that the deep discounts are changing customer behaviour. “People order online because it feels cheaper and easier. Our sales have dropped but expenses remain the same,” he said.
Consumers cite time constraints and affordability as key drivers. Sheetal Chhetri, a working professional, said app-based delivery fits urban schedules. “After long office hours, going out to shop is exhausting. Online delivery saves time and often costs less,” she said.
However, Kamal Chauhan, a food shopkeeper who operates on online delivery platforms too said that the online delivery has helped his business grow. “Earlier, our business was limited to walk-in customers. Now online orders have given us steady demand and better growth,” he said, highlighting how platform integration can expand reach.
From the logistics side, Gautam Kumar, a delivery executive said that most orders are fulfilled within 10 minutes, though traffic can cause delays.
Traders warn that unchecked expansion of app-based commerce could force small, family-run shops to shut down, affecting employment and neighbourhood economies.
