Amazon Now vs Flipkart: 1,000-Center Race and $26.3B Prime Day Forecast
AMZN•Amazon Now operates 500 micro-fulfillment centers in 15 Indian cities and targets 1,000 across 100 cities, while Flipkart has 1,000 hubs and plans 1,500 by end-2026. US consumers will spend $26.3 billion on Prime Day, up 9% YoY, as Amazon faces a labor ruling requiring collective bargaining in San Francisco.
1. Quick-commerce Battle in India
Flipkart’s Minutes service has built a network of 1,000 micro-fulfillment centers since launching in August 2024 and aims for 1,500 by end-2026, positioning it as the second-largest after Blinkit. Amazon is accelerating its Amazon Now rollout to compete for same-day and minutes-delivery market share.
2. Amazon Now Expansion Plans
Amazon Now currently operates over 500 micro-fulfillment centers across 15 Indian cities and plans to expand to more than 1,000 centers in 100 cities, broadening its assortment from groceries into electronics, apparel and home goods.
3. Prime Day Sales Momentum
US consumers are projected to spend $26.3 billion during the four-day Prime Day event, a 9% increase year-over-year. Shoppers are comparing prices across retailers and using AI tools to secure at least 30% discounts, indicating high engagement despite price sensitivity.
4. California Labor Ruling Implications
A U.S. labor board judge has ordered Amazon to recognize and bargain with a majority-backed union at a San Francisco delivery center, invoking the Cemex precedent. Amazon plans to appeal, but this ruling could set a national precedent and increase labor costs if upheld.
