Zepto and Swiggy Deploy Temporary Dark Stores for Seamless Deliveries at AI Impact Summit 2026

Quick commerce giants Zepto and Swiggy are setting up temporary dark stores to enable ultra-fast deliveries for attendees at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, according to sources familiar with the arrangements. The initiative aims to provide seamless access to essentials, groceries, and other items directly within or near the summit venue at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, during the event running from February 16 to 20.

The India AI Impact Summit, hosted by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under the IndiaAI Mission, is the first global AI summit to take place in the Global South. It focuses on advancing AI for humanity, inclusive growth, and sustainability, with themes centered on people, planet, and progress. The gathering has attracted over 35,000 registrations from more than 100 countries, featuring world leaders, tech CEOs, policymakers, researchers, startups, and international organizations discussing real-world AI applications in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, and climate action.

To support the large influx of delegates and ensure convenience amid the intensive schedule of sessions, exhibitions, and networking events, organizers have partnered with leading quick commerce platforms. Temporary dark stores—compact, fulfillment-only facilities optimized for rapid order processing—have been established specifically for the summit duration. These setups allow participants to order items via apps and receive them in minutes through UPI-enabled payments, mirroring the hyper-local model that has transformed urban retail in India.

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The move highlights the growing integration of quick commerce into large-scale events and conferences, where time efficiency is critical. Zepto and Swiggy Instamart, known for their extensive dark store networks across cities, are leveraging their logistics expertise to offer on-site services, including groceries, snacks, personal care products, and other essentials. This arrangement addresses practical needs for thousands of attendees, many traveling from abroad, while showcasing how technology-driven delivery can enhance user experience at major gatherings.

The India AI Impact Summit also includes the India AI Impact Expo, featuring over 300 exhibitors from India and 30+ countries across thematic pavilions. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to inaugurate key sessions and global figures like tech leaders participating, the event underscores India's ambition to lead in responsible and impactful AI development. The temporary dark store initiative adds a practical dimension, demonstrating quick commerce's role in supporting high-profile, multi-day international forums. As the summit progresses, these on-ground conveniences are expected to contribute to smoother delegate experiences amid discussions on AI's transformative potential.

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