Zepto is participating as the exclusive quick commerce partner at the AI Impact Summit 2026, setting up a dedicated delivery hub called Dark Store to serve attendees on site. Through this hub, participants can order food, stationery and other daily essentials for near-instant delivery within the venue. The company is using the event to highlight how artificial intelligence and machine learning power its quick fulfilment model, matching the summit’s focus. Digit has attended the Zepto hub, and here are some details to know about the role of AI, automation, and robotics in their operation.
Zepto says its operations run on advanced automation and in-house technology across the supply chain. More than 50% of its order volumes are processed through highly automated distribution centres. These facilities use cross-docking, automated storage and retrieval systems, linear sorters, conveyors and pick-to-light systems, along with high-speed sorting and packing machines capable of handling millions of units daily.
At the software layer, the company’s warehouse management system uses machine learning to optimise stock keeping unit placement, picker routing and task allocation. According to the company, these systems help reduce average packing time to around 60 seconds per order.
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It also employs demand forecasting models to analyse historical data, seasonality and local consumption trends to predict inventory requirements at the micro-market level. This enables tighter inventory placement across dark stores, a key requirement for quick commerce players operating in dense urban areas.
On the logistics side, AI-driven last-mile routing tools dynamically assign delivery partners and adjust routes based on traffic conditions and order clusters. This is aimed at reducing delivery times and fuel costs, while improving order accuracy.
Zepto also introduced agentic AI tools for partner brands through Zepto GPT. The system is designed to provide insights on sales trends, inventory movement and promotional planning within the platform’s ecosystem. By giving sellers AI-based analytics, the company is going beyond delivery services and building a data-led retail platform.
AI and automation are becoming critical differentiators as companies seek to reduce operational costs and improve per-unit margin. From an industry standpoint, it is encouraging to see sustained investment in this kind of innovation.
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