Quick commerce startup Zepto, known for promising grocery deliveries in just 10 minutes, has taken a major step towards entering the Indian stock market. The company has confidentially filed its draft initial public offering (IPO) documents with market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), signalling plans to go public next year.
If the process moves as expected, Zepto could soon join the league of listed new-age tech companies, marking one of the fastest journeys from startup to Dalal Street in India’s consumer internet space.
What does confidential filing mean?
Zepto has opted for the confidential pre-filing route, a mechanism that allows companies to submit IPO documents privately to SEBI before making them public. This approach helps firms fine-tune their disclosures, address regulatory feedback early, and keep sensitive financial and business details away from competitors.
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While the company has not made an official announcement yet, people familiar with the matter say a public listing in 2026 is very much on the cards.
Set to take on Zomato and Swiggy
Zepto’s stock market entry could intensify competition in the listed quick commerce and food delivery space. Zomato went public in 2021, while Swiggy launched its IPO in November 2024. With Zepto joining the fray, investors will have another high-growth consumer tech option to track.
The company has rapidly built a strong presence in major metros, carving out a niche in ultra-fast grocery delivery and pushing the boundaries of logistics efficiency.
Founded by two young entrepreneurs
Zepto was founded by Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra, who famously dropped out of Stanford University to build the company. What started as an ambitious idea has now grown into one of India’s most talked-about startups.
The company is currently valued at around $7 billion (roughly ₹58,000 crore) and has raised nearly $1.8 billion in funding so far. Its investor base includes global institutions such as the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, highlighting strong overseas interest in India’s quick commerce boom.
Scale, growth and cash burn
As of September 2025, Zepto operated more than 900 dark stores across key Indian cities, enabling its 10-minute delivery promise. The company’s annualised gross order value is estimated at around ₹26,000 crore, reflecting the scale it has achieved in a short span.
That said, like many fast-growing startups, Zepto continues to spend heavily on expansion, technology and logistics. This cash burn strategy is aimed at capturing market share, and its IPO will be closely watched for cues on how the company plans to balance growth with profitability post-listing.
Why Zepto’s IPO matters
Zepto’s move comes at a time when investor interest in consumer tech and quick commerce remains high, despite concerns around valuations and sustainability. Its public debut could serve as a key test case for how markets value speed-driven grocery models in the long run.
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For now, all eyes are on SEBI’s review process and the details that will eventually emerge when Zepto makes its IPO papers public.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Stock market investments are subject to market risks. Readers are advised to consult certified financial experts before making investment decisions.
