Amazing world of Amazon

Online shopping has become a part of our lives, not just in cities but almost all nooks and corners. And little wonder then that Amazon, unarguably the most successful company in India today is constantly exploring newer and better options to improve and increase delivery options.

The latest are - ‘I Have Space’ (IHS) and Service Partner Network (SPN), to increase customer reach and ensure on-time deliveries. Under HIS, kirana shop owners use extra store space for Amazon packages, which they deliver to customers within a 2-4 km radius, for a fee. While the store owner earns extra income, the programme also spawns employment opportunities for youth. This HIS has now spread to a network of 12,500 stores pan India that serve 180 cities with the majority in tier II and III towns. Kirana store owners earn on average ?12,000-15,000 per month and hire 1-2 delivery boys, generating 12,500-25,000 jobs.

And under the SPN, one can set up his/her own delivery station, which could be as small as even 500 sq.feet. It has some 250 SPNs today, over and above Amazon’s 150 delivery stations.

Amazon has also started delivery of goods on bicycles – this is the last-mile delivery to ensure smooth delivery in congested places – it augments two-wheeler and van deliveries.  Amazon has also tied-up with established courier companies like DHL, Blue Dart, Gati, and India Post as delivery channels.

Indeed an amazing world this is of an e-tailer!

Errr... doesn't it also mean that we Indians have become shopaholics???