Amazon Vs Flipkart Sales During the Indian Festive Season: How Do They Stack Up in 2024?

Pavel D’silva

By Pavel D’silva

August 22, 2022

The Indian eCommerce space is growing at a rapid pace and there are multiple eCommerce marketplaces that want a piece of the ever-expanding pie. While Flipkart had been around since 2007, the entry of Amazon into the Indian market in 2013 reshaped eCommerce operations in the country forever since homegrown companies had to adapt their services and offer premium facilities at reduced prices in order to compete and capture their own niche in the sector.

Fast-forward to 202 and Amazon vs Flipkart is still the biggest rivalry in the eCommerce space in India, with both companies having largely comparable rates of success and a similar market share. The Indian festive season is viewed as significant means to accelerate growth and generate an increased number of sales. Join us as we take a more detailed look into the ins and outs of Amazon vs Flipkart including a brief look at each company, statistical comparisons, upcoming sales during the holiday season in 2024 and the key differences between each.

Table Of Contents
  1. About Amazon
  2. About Flipkart
  3. Amazon Vs Flipkart: Statistical Comparison
  4. Amazon vs Flipkart: Upcoming Sales for the Indian Festive Season in 2024
  5. Amazon vs Flipkart: Key Differences
  6. Conclusion: Fulfill Your Amazon and Flipkart Orders for the Indian Festive Season and Beyond With WareIQ
  7. Amazon vs Flipkart Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs

About Amazon

Amazon was one of the initial companies that emerged out of the internet boom in the 1990s. Originally pioneered by Jeff Bezos as an online book retailer in 1994, the company soon expanded its services to encompass a much broader range of products. It is often credited with spearheading various facilities and technologies that are used by most selling platforms today such as ultra-fast same-day and next-day delivery, the concept of premium membership through its Prime program and having multiple fulfillment centers from where orders can be dispatched. The company entered the Indian market and is now seen as a household name when it comes to eCommerce retail.

WareIQ – Amazon-prime Like Logistics for Modern Brands in India

WareIQ, an eCommerce fulfillment company, empowers online brands with a superior-tech platform to compete with Amazon like service levels by bringing their average delivery timelines from 5-10 days to 1-2 days.

"With WareIQ, UTH is able to consolidate common inventory for all platforms and get much closer to the customer through access to WareIQ’s strong nationwide network of fulfilment centres, and last mile & hyper-local courier partners. We are excited about being able to offer same day delivery in several pin codes due to WareIQ."
- Samit Mehta, Founder, UTH Beverages

About Flipkart

Flipkart’s inception was in 2007 as a homegrown alternative to Amazon, which still wasn’t present in the Indian market during that period. The company instantly garnered a vast amount of success and many loyal patrons still prefer selling on Flipkart to any other selling platform, even today. Flipkart’s acquisition by Walmart in 2018 injected newfound resources to enable it to compete on a more level playing field with big players such as Amazon.

Flipkart’s success is indicated by its vast user base, positive reviews and market share relative to Amazon which is quite an impressive feat considering that it is more than a decade younger. The company was also one of the first Indian brands that entered the mainstream eCommerce space and took the likes of Amazon, eBay, and others head-on.

Amazon Vs Flipkart: Statistical Comparison

Amazon vs Flipkart in India is one of the largest rivalries in the eCommerce industry and with a potential user base in excess of 1 billion people for companies to tap into, the competition is fierce. While Flipkart’s revenue crossed ₹43k crores during FY 2024, Amazon’s is a lower but no less significant ₹31k crores. Let us look at some other statistics that set these companies apart in terms of their performance:

  • Indian consumers spend roughly $70 a month on both platforms combined
  • In previous years, Amazon’s Great Indian Festival run during the festive season consistently out-paces Flipkart’s festive season equivalent, the Big Billion Day Sale
  • Only 20% of Amazon users have opted to upgrade to Amazon Prime compared to 50% of Flipkart’s customers that have upgraded to Flipkart Plus
  • Amazon Prime members generally experience quicker delivery times than Flipkart Plus members
  • Among non-premium regular users of both platforms, Amazon experienced a customer retention rate of 35% whereas Flipkart only managed a customer retention rate of 25%
  • When comparing the retention rates of premium users, Amazon Prime was able to retain 74% of its customers compared to 80% for Flipkart Plus
  • The number of registered sellers that use Amazon is 850,000 in contrast to Flipkart’s relatively lower figure of 375,000
  • Flipkart redeems itself with a user base of 350 million people compared to Amazon’s 100 million.
  • There are also more unique products being sold on Flipkart at an estimated 150 million as opposed to Amazon’s 50 million
  • Both companies have a roughly equal share of the market at 31.2% and 31.9% for Amazon and Flipkart respectively

Amazon vs Flipkart: Upcoming Sales for the Indian Festive Season in 2024

Amazon

Nine Days of Navaratri

coupon

Date: 26th September to 4th October, 2022 (this year dates yet to be announced)

Description: Navaratri is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and to commemorate the occasion and encourage customers to celebrate with their wallets, Amazon is running this Navaratri-inspired sale.

Offers:

  • Up to 75% off for various products
  • 9 product categories will be eligible

Great Indian Festival

Amazon Freedom Sale: Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale 2022: Great Deals, Great Discounts from August 6th to August 10th - Paper Writer

Dates: 6th October to 10th October, 2022 (this year dates yet to be announced)

Description: The Amazon Great Indian Festival is one of the many flagship events for the company to capitalize on the Indian festive season. Almost every product category is included in the sale and subject to discounts of up to 80%.

Offers:

  • Multiple cashback and EMI offers for specified banks
  • Up to 80% off on certain product categories

Diwali Sale

Date: 24th October to 25th October, 2022

Description: The Amazon Diwali sale is just one of the many Amazon sales that are run during October, the peak of the Indian festive season. The Diwali sale is one of the most popular sales for Amazon so customers are rewarded with a vast number of deals and offers.

Offers:

  • Up to 80% off on multiple product categories
  • Additional offers can be availed through specified banks

Christmas Sale

Date: 21st to 25th December (this year dates yet to be announced)

Description: Both Amazon and Flipkart have multiple clashing Indian festive season sales and the Christmas sale is one of them. Amazon puts more of a twist on the sale by offering discounts on winter products and other items that customers tend to use during Christmas and the winter season.

Offers:

  • Up to 80% on certain product categories
  • Special offers on Christmas goodies, gifts and hampers 

Flipkart

Budget Dhamaka

Date: 14th September to 15th September, 2022

Description: This sale places emphasis on value-for-money deals and gives customers the opportunity to save big with discounts of up to 85% on certain product categories.

Offers: 

  • Up to 85% off on specified products
  • Discounts in many different categories

Big Billion Day Sale

Flipkart Big Billions Days Sale Offers 2022 : Upto 80% off + 12.6% Cashback + 10% off

Date: 3rd October to 10th October, 2022 (this year dates yet to be announced)

Description: This is one of Flipkart’s flagship sales of the year and is in the midst of the Indian festive season. There are a large number of discounts and offers on almost every product category that is available. This sale is Flipkart’s answer to Amazon’s Great Indian Festival and its success of it dictates which company will come out on top during the festive season.

Offers:

  • Discounts on almost every product category
  • Accessories and footwear are up to 70%

Christmas Sale

Date: 20th December to 25th December, 2022 (this year dates yet to be announced)

Description: Flipkart’s goal is to make the happiest time of the year even happier for the Indian festive season. There are discounts of upwards of 70% in certain product categories in addition to plenty of other benefits.

Offers:

  • Up to 75% off on fashion, home decor and other categories
  • Up to 70% off on electronics such as televisions and smartphones

Year End Sale

Date: 26th December to 31st December, 2022 (this year dates yet to be announced)

Description: There is no way to spend the remainder of the year for customers than buying products they need at huge discounts. Many customers wait all year for this so they can take advantage of the reduced pricing.

Offers:

  • Up to 80% discounts on all orders
  • Cashbacks, EMI schemes and other offers are available for certain banks
  • Huge discounts on a variety of product categories

Amazon vs Flipkart: Key Differences

ParticularsAmazonFlipkart
Product SelectionIn regard to the product selection on offer, both platforms have a comprehensive list of categories for anything and everything that customers would ever need. If you are a retailer that sells products in a particular segment, chances are that you could sell your products on either platform without any hassle, barring products that are illegal or frowned upon. Thus, the claim cannot be made that one company offers a more diverse product selection than the other when it comes to Amazon vs Flipkart.
User ExperienceAmazon’s user experience is more tailored to retailers who will be happy to note that back-end tasks can be performed quicker and more concisely. Amazon also lacks many features than Flipkart which aids in a less cluttered feel.Flipkart offers a more simple and intuitive user interface for the customer when it comes to procedures such as checking out, making a payment and ordering an item.
Order FulfillmentAmazon uses its in-house fulfillment service, known as Fulfillment-by-Amazon (FBA). FBA offers a high-quality and standardised experience. However, the guidelines are extremely rigid and retailers can get penalised for minor infractions.Flipkart uses a specialised subsidiary fulfillment service known as Ekart. The company handles all of Flipkart’s orders and offers more flexibility and leeway to retailers compared to FBA.
Customer SupportAmazon offers stellar and immediate customer support facilities around the clock and is often touted as the best customer support service in the industry.Flipkart also offers customer support but it lags behind Amazon, as reflected by the constant complaints and issues faced by customers.
Payment OptionsAmazon offers the usual range of payment options including net banking, UPI, credit cards, debit cards and Amazon Wallet. Amazon has a buy now, pay later option known as Amazon Pay EMI.Flipkart also offers all the conventional payment methods and also has a payment option called Flipkart Pay Later which functions in a similar manner to Amazon Pay EMI.
Customer and Seller BaseAmazon has a higher seller count of its platform at 850,000 but falls short of Flipkart in the user count at 100 million.Flipkart has a much lower seller count than Amazon at only 375,000 but has a higher user count at 350 million.
Additonal FeaturesAmazon has a unique feature where free gifts are sent to eligible customers with a note on the retailer’s behalf. The company also offers a series of benefits through its premium subscription service, Amazon Prime.Flipkart lacks the feature to send gifts to customers but also offers a premium service known as Flipkart Plus that isn’t subscription based but rather based on other criteria of eligible customers.

Conclusion: Fulfill Your Amazon and Flipkart Orders for the Indian Festive Season and Beyond With WareIQ

Amazon vs Flipkart has emerged as an age-old rivalry in the Indian eCommerce space with both selling platforms trying to out-perform each other through the use of technology, discounts, benefits, facilities and more. This is further amplified during the holiday season with both companies going above and beyond to deliver the most attractive proposition to their users.

Therefore, the winners of this particular fight are the consumers, who constantly have access to the best services at the lowest possible prices regardless of which platform they shop on and the retailers, who can make use of the advanced tools and technological advancements that their eCommerce marketplace equips them with because if a retailer does well and sells the maximum amount of products, so too does the particular platform.

Thus, it is in the best interest of the beneficiaries of the Amazon vs Flipkart head-to-head to figure out which platform is better for them, as both offer a similar level of performance and will both provide exemplary opportunities to the retailers and customers that use them. If you are an online seller and need assistance to fulfill orders on either platform in addition to many others, WareIQ can be the solution.

amazon vs flipkart_How WareIQ optimises speed delivery

WareIQ is an Indian eCommerce fulfillment company that has emerged as one of the fastest-growing in the country. We offer a variety of fulfillment solutions across the entire range of eCommerce operations such as storage, order fulfillment, reverse logistics and more. Some of the facilities that we offer that make it a better option than Amazon FBA or Flipkart Fulfillment include:

  • A nationwide network of fulfillment centers and dark stores
  • A custom WMS that can integrate with most major eCommerce marketplaces such as Amazon, Flipkart, eBay, Meesho and more
  • Real-time updates to changes in inventory levels across selling channels and fulfillment centers in a centralized dashboard
  • A choice of more than 20 of the biggest shipping aggregators that always assigns the quickest and most cost-effective option
  • Branded tracking facilities to deliver a personalized experience to customers
  • An app store that contains a good number of productivity-enhancing apps
  • Custom features such as an RTO Shield to protect your business from incurring returns-related expenses
  • Ultra-fast and reliable same-day and next-day shipping

Amazon vs Flipkart Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs

Supercharge your fulfilment with WareIQ now, contact our team.

WareIQ RTO Shield
Pavel D’silva
Author

Pavel D’silva

Pavel is a content marketing analyst at WareIQ. He has more than 3 years of content marketing experience. His key responsibilities include writing SEO-based blogs, guides, guest posts, and other types of content on a plethora of topics related to eCommerce fulfillment, operations, supply chain, warehousing, shipping etc.

Read all of Pavel D’silva's Posts

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While e-SANCHIT is built with safety and security in mind, users are also advised to follow best practices for cybersecurity, such as using strong, unique passwords, keeping their login credentials confidential, and ensuring their computers are protected against malware. By combining e-SANCHIT’s robust security measures with vigilant personal cybersecurity practices, users can confidently utilise the platform for their import-export documentation needs. How IEC Code Tracking Works? IEC code tracking is a process that allows businesses and individuals to monitor the status of their Importer Exporter Code (IEC) application or to verify the validity of an existing IEC. This tracking capability is essential for ensuring that the IEC application process is progressing smoothly or for conducting due diligence in trade transactions. Here's how IEC code tracking typically works: 1. Online Tracking through DGFT Portal The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) provides an online facility for IEC code tracking on its official website. This service enables applicants to check the status of their IEC application after submission. 2. Application Reference Number To track the status of an IEC application, the applicant needs the application reference number, which is provided at the time of submitting the IEC application. This reference number is crucial for accessing the application's status. 3. Status Update Upon entering the application reference number on the DGFT portal, the system displays the IEC application's current status. This may include stages such as "Under Process," "Approved," "Rejected," or "Requires Additional Information." This real-time update allows applicants to take necessary actions if there are any issues or delays in the processing of their applications. 4. Verification of Existing IEC To verify an existing IEC, stakeholders such as banks, customs authorities, or business partners can use the DGFT portal or other authorised platforms to check the authenticity and validity of an IEC code. This is often done by entering the IEC number and, in some cases, additional details like the business name or PAN number. 5. Automated Alerts Some systems may offer the option to receive automated alerts or notifications regarding the status of IEC applications. This feature ensures that applicants are promptly informed of any updates, reducing the need for manual tracking. IEC code tracking is an important tool for businesses engaged in international trade, providing transparency and control over the application process and ensuring the validity of trade credentials. It facilitates smoother trade operations by minimising uncertainties and delays related to IEC acquisition and verification. Conclusion The Importer Exporter Code (IEC) emerges as a fundamental cornerstone for businesses engaging in international trade, encapsulating a broader narrative of global commerce facilitation. As delineated in this comprehensive exploration, the IEC not only serves as a regulatory mandate but also paves the way for enterprises to seamlessly integrate into the global market, highlighting its indispensable role in the architecture of international trade. From its application and verification process to the nuances of e-SANCHIT's secure digital document submission platform in India and the operational mechanics of IEC code tracking, each facet of the IEC ecosystem contributes to simplifying the complexities of global commerce. The IEC stands as a beacon of efficiency, security, and compliance, indispensable for businesses aiming to navigate the intricate landscape of international trade with agility and confidence. It underscores the evolving dynamics of global trade practices, emphasising the criticality of embracing digital advancements and adhering to regulatory frameworks to foster a conducive environment for trade and commerce. As businesses and individuals continue to leverage these tools and processes, the pathway to global market participation becomes increasingly accessible, underscoring the profound impact of the IEC in the broader narrative of international commerce. Frequently Asked Questions About IEC Code How long does it take to obtain an IEC Code?The processing time for obtaining an IEC Code can vary. Still, typically, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issues the IEC within 3 to 7 working days after receiving a correctly filled application, provided there are no discrepancies or additional information required.Can an individual apply for an IEC Code, or is it only for businesses?Both individuals and businesses can apply for an IEC Code as long as they intend to engage in import or export activities. Freelancers and sole proprietors involved in international trade also need to secure an IEC.Is there an expiry date for the IEC Code?No, the IEC Code does not have an expiry date. Once obtained, it is valid for the lifetime of the entity unless revoked or surrendered. This makes it a one-time registration and compliance requirement for importers and exporters.What documents are required for the IEC Code application?The primary documents required include a PAN card (for the individual/business), proof of address, and a bank certificate or cancelled cheque bearing the entity’s name pre-printed on it. Additional documents might be required based on specific cases or updates in DGFT regulations.Can the IEC Code be cancelled or surrendered?Yes, if a business or individual decides to discontinue import/export activities or close the industry, the IEC Code can be surrendered. The DGFT provides a procedure for the cancellation or surrender of the IEC, which involves submitting a request along with necessary documents for deactivation.Is the IEC Code required for service exports, or is it just for goods?The IEC Code is required for the export of services as well as goods. Any earnings in foreign exchange, irrespective of the nature of the service, require the service provider to have an IEC.How does one verify the authenticity of an IEC Code?The DGFT portal offers an online IEC verification tool. Anyone can enter the IEC number to check its validity and view the details of the IEC holder. This tool is crucial for verifying the authenticity of business partners in international trade.

April 22, 2024
What Is e-SANCHIT: Simplifying Digital Document Submission in India

What Is e-SANCHIT: Simplifying Digital Document Submission in India

In the digital era, simplifying and streamlining document submissions for international trade has become a priority for many countries, including India. Enter e-SANCHIT, or electronically stored information regarding Cargo Handling and Inventory Control by Terminal operators, an initiative by the Indian Customs to digitise the process of document submission for import and export. Launched with the intent to enhance the ease of doing business, e-SANCHIT aims to reduce paperwork, minimise physical touchpoints, and expedite the clearance process at customs. This article will delve into what e-SANCHIT is, how it operates, its applications, safety considerations in India, and its broader implications for businesses and the logistics sector. Demystifying What Is e-SANCHIT? e-SANCHIT, an abbreviation for the Electronic System for Advance Submission of Cargo Information Through Inventory Control, represents a significant leap forward in India's customs clearance process. It is an online platform that enables the electronic submission of supporting documents for imports and exports, allowing traders, freight forwarders, and other stakeholders to upload the necessary documents before the arrival or shipment of goods. The system aims to facilitate a paperless, efficient, and transparent process, reducing the time and cost associated with customs clearance. By eliminating the need for physical document submission, e-SANCHIT streamlines the verification process, enhances operational efficiency and contributes to a more environmentally friendly approach to trade documentation. What Is the Process of Using e-SANCHIT? The process of using e-SANCHIT involves several straightforward steps that are designed to be user-friendly and accessible. Users first need to register on the e-SANCHIT portal through the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE), providing the necessary details to create an account. Once registered, users can log in to their account and begin the document upload process, which includes attaching digital copies of all required documents, such as invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. Each uploaded document is assigned a unique Image Reference Number (IRN), which is used to reference the documents during customs clearance. The system automatically processes and verifies the documents, integrating them with the customs clearance process. Users can track the status of their submissions and receive notifications on any actions required, ensuring a smooth and continuous flow of information. The Uses of e-SANCHIT e-SANCHIT is leveraged for a multitude of purposes aimed at optimising the customs clearance process in India, making it an indispensable tool for importers, exporters, and logistics professionals. Primarily, it is utilised for the paperless submission of all key import and export documents, significantly reducing the time required for customs clearance. By enabling stakeholders to upload documents electronically prior to the arrival of goods, e-SANCHIT ensures faster processing at customs, thereby accelerating the overall supply chain flow. Furthermore, e-SANCHIT acts as a centralised digital repository for trade documents. This feature not only facilitates easy access and retrieval of documents for compliance and verification purposes but also minimises the risks associated with the loss of physical paperwork. The platform enhances transparency in the customs clearance process, allowing traders to track the status of their document submissions and receive timely updates on any required actions, which aids in the more effective planning and execution of logistics operations. Moreover, e-SANCHIT supports the integration with other digital platforms and government initiatives aimed at trade facilitation, creating a cohesive ecosystem for managing international trade transactions. This interconnectedness simplifies compliance with regulatory requirements, streamlines the documentation process, and promotes a more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly approach to customs clearance in India. The Safety of e-SANCHIT in India Concerns regarding the safety and security of digital platforms are paramount, primarily when they handle sensitive trade documentation. In the context of e-SANCHIT in India, the platform is designed with robust security measures to safeguard user data and ensure the integrity of the document submission process. Utilising advanced encryption protocols, e-SANCHIT protects the data exchange between users and the customs database, preventing unauthorised access and data breaches. The platform operates under the oversight of the Indian Customs authorities, adhering to strict data protection regulations and cybersecurity standards. Regular security audits and compliance checks are conducted to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities, ensuring that e-SANCHIT remains a secure environment for its users. Moreover, access to e-SANCHIT is restricted to registered users who must undergo a verification process, further enhancing the platform's security framework. Users are also encouraged to adopt best practices in data security, such as using strong passwords and keeping their login information confidential. Related reading: India's National Logistics Policy Conclusion e-SANCHIT stands as a beacon of India's commitment to digitising and streamlining the customs documentation process, significantly impacting how trade operations are conducted within the country. By facilitating the electronic submission of import and export documents, e-SANCHIT not only enhances the efficiency of customs clearances but also propels India towards a more integrated and transparent trade environment. This digital leap forward in the customs domain exemplifies the potential for technology to revolutionise traditional processes, ensuring that businesses can operate more smoothly and with greater compliance. The trading community's adoption of e-SANCHIT and its integration into the broader logistics and supply chain operations underscore its value in fostering a competitive and agile trade ecosystem. As we move further into the digital age, platforms like e-SANCHIT will continue to play a critical role in enhancing the ease of doing business and securing India's position as a key player in the global market. The success of e-SANCHIT paves the way for future innovations in trade facilitation, promising a more efficient, secure, and sustainable trade landscape for India. Related read: What Is an IEC Code and Why Do You Need It? Frequently Asked Questions About e-SANCHIT How do I register for e-SANCHIT?To register for e-SANCHIT, users need to visit the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE) website and sign up for an account by providing the required business details and documentation. Once the account is verified, users can access e-SANCHIT through their ICEGATE login credentials.Can all types of documents be uploaded to e-SANCHIT?e-SANCHIT is designed to accept a wide range of trade-related documents, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and more. However, it’s essential to check the latest guidelines on the ICEGATE portal for any document-specific requirements or restrictions.Is there a limit to the number of documents that can be uploaded to e-SANCHIT?While there may be technical limits on file size per upload, e-SANCHIT generally allows for the submission of multiple documents as needed for each shipment. Users should ensure that documents are clear and legible to avoid rejection.What should I do if my document uploads to e-SANCHIT fails?If a document upload fails, users should first check for any technical issues, such as file size or format compatibility. If the problem persists, contacting the ICEGATE helpdesk for assistance and troubleshooting is recommended.How does e-SANCHIT improve the customs clearance process?e-SANCHIT improves the customs clearance process by enabling the advanced electronic submission and verification of documents. This reduces the need for physical paperwork, speeds up the verification process, and allows for quicker clearance of goods at customs.Is training available for new e-SANCHIT users?Yes, the Indian Customs and Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) periodically offer training sessions and tutorials for new users. Additionally, resources and user guides are available on the ICEGATE portal to assist with the e-SANCHIT submission process.

April 16, 2024