Flipkart to Launch Food Delivery Service in India, Bengaluru Pilot to Begin Soon

Walmart-owned Flipkart is preparing to enter India's highly competitive food delivery market, with a pilot launch expected in Bengaluru within the next month, according to people familiar with the matter. The move marks Flipkart's latest expansion beyond e-commerce as it looks to tap into one of India's fastest-growing digital consumer segments.

The Bengaluru rollout is expected to serve as a testing ground before a wider expansion to other cities. Sources said the company is evaluating multiple distribution strategies, including launching the service through a dedicated food delivery app while also making it available on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

If launched, Flipkart will enter a market currently dominated by Eternal-owned Zomato, Swiggy and emerging ONDC-based food delivery platforms. The company is reportedly focusing on building a strong value proposition to attract both restaurant partners and consumers in an increasingly competitive industry.

Flipkart Plans Bengaluru Pilot Launch

According to sources, Flipkart intends to begin its food delivery operations with a pilot programme in Bengaluru. The company is expected to assess customer demand, delivery efficiency and merchant onboarding before deciding on a broader national rollout.

Launching initially in a single city allows Flipkart to refine its platform, logistics network and pricing strategy before expanding into other major metropolitan markets.

Separate App and ONDC Integration Being Explored

Sources indicated that Flipkart is considering launching the food delivery business through a separate mobile application rather than integrating it directly into its existing e-commerce platform.

The company is also exploring participation through the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), India's government-backed open digital commerce network that aims to create a level playing field for buyers, sellers and service providers.

An ONDC presence could help Flipkart reach restaurants and customers through an interoperable network while reducing dependence on a closed marketplace model.

Competition in India's Food Delivery Market

India's online food delivery market has expanded rapidly over the past decade, supported by rising smartphone adoption, widespread digital payments, and changing consumer preferences for convenience. If Flipkart enters the segment, it will compete with established players that already have extensive restaurant partnerships, large delivery networks, and strong customer bases. However, Flipkart's large user base, nationwide logistics network, and integrated digital commerce ecosystem could provide a competitive advantage as it builds its presence in the food delivery market.

Focus on Customer Value Proposition

Flipkart is reportedly working on a strong value proposition ahead of its food delivery launch, with a focus on differentiating itself in India's highly competitive market. While the company has not revealed specific details, food delivery platforms typically compete on competitive pricing, fast delivery, restaurant selection, customer experience, and loyalty programmes. Flipkart has not officially announced the launch timeline or disclosed the full features of its proposed food delivery platform.

Regulatory Developments

The reported food delivery expansion comes shortly after the Forum for Internet Retailers, Sellers and Traders (FIRST), an association under the India SME Forum, approached the Competition Commission of India (CCI) with allegations related to Flipkart's marketplace practices. According to a complaint accessed by NDTV Profit, FIRST alleged that Flipkart's GST-related practices created a financial advantage that enabled the company to offer deep discounts and undercut independent sellers. The allegations relate to Flipkart's e-commerce marketplace and are separate from its reported food delivery plans.

Flipkart has not publicly commented on these allegations in relation to the proposed food delivery business. Source: NDTV Profit.

Why This Matters

Flipkart's entry into the online food delivery market could intensify competition by challenging established players with its extensive logistics network, large customer base, and strong digital commerce ecosystem. If the Bengaluru pilot proves successful, the company could leverage its existing infrastructure to scale operations across more cities while attracting both restaurants and consumers. Its reported strategy of combining a standalone food delivery app with potential ONDC integration could also provide a differentiated approach in India's rapidly growing food delivery sector.

Key Highlights

Parameter	Details
Company	Flipkart
Parent Company	Walmart
New Business	Food Delivery
Initial Launch	Bengaluru Pilot
Expected Rollout	Within a Month (as per sources)
Expansion Plan	Other Indian Cities
Platform Strategy	Separate App Under Evaluation
ONDC Availability	Being Explored
Official Launch Announcement	Not Yet

Is Flipkart launching a food delivery service?

According to sources, Flipkart is preparing to launch a food delivery service, beginning with a pilot rollout in Bengaluru before expanding to additional cities.

Which city will get Flipkart's food delivery service first?

Bengaluru is expected to be the first city where Flipkart tests its food delivery platform.

Will Flipkart launch a separate food delivery app?

Sources indicate that Flipkart is exploring the possibility of launching the service through a dedicated app while also evaluating integration with ONDC.

Will Flipkart's food delivery service be available on ONDC?

The company is reportedly considering making the service available through the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), although no official confirmation has been issued.

Who will Flipkart compete with in food delivery?

If launched, Flipkart will compete with major food delivery platforms including Zomato, Swiggy and other ONDC based food ordering services.

Has Flipkart officially announced the launch?

No. Flipkart has not officially confirmed the launch timeline or announced the rollout of its food delivery business.