Impact of Quick Commerce Platform on the Spending Patterns of Youth in Patna

Abstract

The rapid growth of quick commerce platforms such as Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart has significantly changed the way young people shop in Patna. One of the key concerns that led to this study is the rising tendency among youth to spend more than planned due to frequent impulse purchases, even though they have limited monthly budgets ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000. This shift is gradually moving consumption patterns from planned buying to more frequent, unplanned spending. The study examines how factors such as convenience, attractive discounts, constant app notifications, and late-night availability encourage impulsive buying behavior, with nearly 37-40% of grocery spending becoming spontaneous. It also looks at the shift from traditional e-commerce, where purchases are usually planned and made in bulk with delivery taking 1 to 7 days, to quick commerce, which promotes instant, need-based buying. This transition is affecting financial discipline among youth and reducing their dependence on local kirana stores. The research is based on both primary data, collected through surveys of young consumers in Patna, and secondary data from reports and existing studies. Overall, the study aims to provide a clearer understanding of how quick commerce is shaping spending habits and consumer behavior in a growing urban market.