You already know how competitive the quick commerce space is. Whether it is groceries, snacks, medicines, or last-minute gifts, everyone wants delivery in minutes. However, the real problem is that grabbing a customer’s attention and turning them into a loyal buyer is becoming increasingly difficult by the day. Ads are everywhere. Customer expectations are sky-high. And switching between apps is easier than ever.
If you are struggling to scale, your real challenge is not just speed. It is a smart and strategic acquisition. You need a customer acquisition solution that not only attracts new customers but also retains them over time. Below are a few well-thought-out tips that can give your quick commerce brand a real edge.
Customer Acquisition Tips to Grow Your Quick Commerce Brand
Here are some customer acquisition tips for quick commerce businesses:
Hyperlocal Targeting
To succeed in quick commerce, you must acquire customers within a specific radius where deliveries can be fulfilled rapidly. Use precise geo-fencing tools on digital ad platforms to run location-based campaigns targeting users within your delivery range. Do not rely solely on PIN codes. Explore further by exploring building clusters, housing societies, and office parks. Also, customise your creatives with references to local landmarks or events to build familiarity.
First-Time User Offers
Offering a one-size-fits-all discount is not enough. Instead, create differentiated first-time user offers based on behavioural triggers. For example, offer ₹100 off for users who abandon carts, or provide 50% off on their first order placed during non-peak hours.
Go further by syncing this with customer intent signals, such as app installs, sign-ups, or browsing behaviour. This layered incentive approach encourages users to make that first transaction quickly. Make sure the offer feels urgent and exclusive.
App Store Optimisation (ASO)
Quick commerce depends heavily on app usage. You must optimise your visibility in the Play Store and App Store through App Store Optimisation. Use highly specific keywords such as ‘instant grocery delivery in Delhi’ or ‘15-minute snacks in Mumbai.’ Add screenshots that highlight actual delivery speed, localised catalogue options, and the checkout experience. Encourage new users to leave reviews within an hour of receiving their order using automated push notifications.
Local Influencer Collaborations
Instead of spending heavily on macro-influencers, work with local content creators who have a loyal following within your delivery zone. Look for creators who regularly talk about daily life, parenting, food, or work-from-home routines. Give them a challenge, such as ordering lunch in 10 minutes using your app and documenting the entire process. The more unfiltered the content is, the more relatable it will feel.
Referral Program
A basic referral program may attract some users, but a tiered program can amplify your acquisition efforts. Create levels where users earn better rewards as they refer more people. For example, one successful referral might give ₹50 off, but five referrals unlock free delivery for a week.
Make the rewards progressively better, but still sustainable for your margins. More importantly, automate sharing through WhatsApp and SMS using personalised messages that mention the user’s name and their unlocked benefit.
Cross-Promotions
Many quick commerce players overlook resident communities, such as RWAs (Resident Welfare Associations), gated housing societies, and apartment groups. Partner with these communities by offering exclusive discounts or curated catalogues for residents. Distribute printed flyers or digital posters in their internal WhatsApp or Telegram groups.
Go a step further and integrate order flows with their internal apps or notice boards. You can even sponsor society events with free snack counters or water bottles bearing QR codes for first-order discounts.
Delivery Tracking
In quick commerce, people not only want things fast; they also want to see the speed in action. Provide real-time order tracking that clearly shows every stage: order packed, out for delivery, delivery partner en route, and expected arrival time. This transparency builds trust and reduces anxiety, especially for new users who are unsure if your promised delivery time is real.
Time-Based Offers
Understand when your users are most likely to order and create offers around those windows. For example, run breakfast deals between 7 AM and 10 AM, evening snack discounts from 4 PM to 6 PM, and late-night delivery fee waivers after 10 PM. These offers not only increase order volume during those hours but also condition users to return at those times.
Platform Integration
To acquire users quickly, you must meet them where they already are. Identify apps and digital platforms that are part of your target audience’s daily routine, such as fitness apps, digital wallets, transit booking tools, or meditation platforms.
Offer embedded discount codes, native ad placements, or widget partnerships that allow users to explore your brand without disrupting their routine. Integrating your app with essential tools, such as core banking solutions, can also enhance trust, especially when users are transacting digitally.
Failed Delivery Feedback
Every failed or late delivery is a goldmine of insights. Analyse which pin codes often face delays, which product types are prone to cancellations, and which customer expectations are not met.
Once you identify the pattern, re-align your acquisition filters. For instance, avoid targeting users in under-serviced areas or running ads on products you often run out of.
Conclusion
In quick commerce, speed alone won’t win you loyal customers. Real growth lies in using smart customer acquisition solutions. From hyperlocal targeting and app store optimisation to referral programs and delivery transparency. The tips above demonstrate that understanding local behaviour, rewarding referrals, and addressing operational gaps can help you not only attract but also retain customers.
