E-commerce Boom: Companies to Hire 12.5 Lakh Workers for Festive Season Surge

E-commerce companies plan to hire 10 lakh gig workers and 2.5 lakh contractual staff to meet an anticipated 35% surge in sales during the festive season, according to a TeamLease Services report. Major quick commerce firms are expanding their product offerings and services, aiming for comprehensive market coverage.

As the festive season approaches, E-commerce companies are gearing up for a hiring spree, with plans to employ 10 lakh gig workers and 2.5 lakh contractual staff, according to a report by TeamLease Services. The anticipated sales surge of 35% from the previous year underscores the sector's robust growth.

To meet the heightened demand, e-commerce firms are ramping up their workforce to ensure seamless operations and timely deliveries during the festive rush. This expansion highlights the sector's vitality and the increasing consumer confidence in online shopping. 'This festive season, E-commerce will drive sales and fuel job creation on a massive scale,' stated Balasubramanian A, Senior VP and Business Head at TeamLease Services.

The report indicates that major quick commerce firms are broadening their horizons, venturing into new cities and expanding product lines to include electronics, beauty products, home decor, wellness items, and general merchandise. These companies aim to position themselves as comprehensive online supermarkets, offering diverse product ranges beyond essential goods traditionally found in Kirana stores.

Projections suggest that by 2026, over 60% of e-commerce demand will emerge from tier 2, 3, and 4 cities and rural areas, as stated by Balasubramanian. Last financial year, the E-commerce sector processed 20 lakh orders daily, with this year aimed to exceed that figure during the festive season.

The National Logistics Policy, focusing on cost-effectiveness and efficient logistics, is a key driver in this growth, particularly by optimizing deliveries to remote locations. As preparations intensify for the festive season, e-commerce companies are expanding their hiring across various roles, from delivery personnel to customer service representatives, ensuring a robust support system for the anticipated demand.

(With inputs from agencies.)