With 2 months still to go for this year to end, Zomato and its subsidiary Blinkit, have already introduced a remarkable lineup of features and updates, each designed to enhance convenience, affordability, and support for customers, businesses, and local entrepreneurs. Here’s a comprehensive look at the highlights from their innovative journey so far in 2024:
1. EMI Payment Option on Blinkit
To make larger purchases more manageable, Blinkit has introduced an EMI option for orders above ₹2,999 (excluding orders with gold and silver coins). This update supports customers in planning their finances more effectively, especially for higher-value purchases.
2. Launch of the Blinkit Franchise App
Designed for franchise owners, this first-of-its-kind app in quick commerce enhances business operations by providing real-time metrics, team attendance tracking, and transparent payout processes. Blinkit’s dedication in empowering local entrepreneurs and improving customer service makes this app a powerful tool for its franchise network across 27 cities.
3. GSTIN Addition for Business Purchases on Blinkit
Responding to the needs of its business clients, Blinkit now allows businesses to add GSTIN for easy invoicing. This feature is expected to drive high-value purchases by offering greater convenience and transparency in billing.
4.Train Food Delivery with Zomato and IRCTC Partnership
Zomato now offers direct-to-seat delivery at over 100 railway stations through a partnership with IRCTC, making it easier than ever for train passengers to enjoy quality meals on the go. Over 10 lakh orders have already been served, showcasing the success of this travel-friendly innovation.
5. Zomato for Enterprise (ZFE)
For corporate clients, ZFE streamlines food expense management by allowing employees to bill business-related orders directly to their employer. With features like budget setting and ordering rules, ZFE has already been adopted by 100 top companies, promising a smoother reimbursement process.
6.Scheduled Orders on Zomato
Zomato now lets customers schedule orders up to two days in advance for orders above ₹1,000, offering greater flexibility for meal planning. Initially available across several cities, this feature is set to expand to more outlets and locations soon.
7.Group Ordering on Zomato
Ideal for gatherings and house parties, Zomato’s group ordering feature allows customers to share an order link with friends so everyone can add items to the cart directly. This eliminates the hassle of passing the phone around and ensures a seamless ordering experience.
8.Balance Transfer for Cash on Delivery Orders
In a step toward cashless convenience, Zomato now allows customers to pay cash to delivery partners and have any balance transferred instantly to their Zomato Money account, which can be used for future orders.
9.TDS Refund Support for Delivery Partners
To support its delivery partners financially, Zomato has launched an initiative enabling them to receive refunds on their TDS deductions through Income Tax Returns (ITR). Over 1 lakh partners have already filed for refunds, with expectations of ₹40 crores in total refunds.
10.Healthier Choice Suggestions on Zomato
With a new feature gently encouraging healthier eating, Zomato offers alternatives like roti in place of naan. This “swap” suggestion feature has seen a 7% attach rate and positive feedback, and it will soon expand to cover other dishes and categories.
11.‘Emergency Heroes’ Program
In a commendable move, Zomato has trained over 20,000 delivery partners across 31 cities as first responders, equipped to provide aid in emergencies. This initiative has already made a positive impact, as partners have offered medical assistance in real-life roadside emergencies.
Each of these features demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction, supporting local entrepreneurs, and improving the overall user experience. The impressive lineup of updates from Zomato and Blinkit in less than a year showcases their ability to innovate and adapt, setting new benchmarks in quick commerce and delivery. We look forward to seeing what they have in store next!
