Shares a video detailing the discrepancies in the watch, for which he paid Rs. 50,000. This nightmare scenario is every online shopper’s worst fear
Quick-Commerce apps have been marketed based on convenience as their primary reason for attracting consumers for several years. So, if you’re looking for grocery items, you’ll get them in less than 10 minutes; if you want to buy a pair of headphones, you get it in less than 10 minutes; and if you’re looking for an expensive electronic device right before you have to start your video shoot, you can also get that item within the same amount of time.
In a recent post on social media, comedian and actor Vir Das shared his recent experience with purchasing an Apple Watch online using a fast delivery service, Zepto, saying that although he paid almost Rs. 50,000, the Apple Watch he received was likely fake based on several signs of counterfeiting (poor packaging and inconsistent markings with the device). As a result of the poor initial response from the delivery service regarding his purchase experience, he decided to publicly call them out.
Expressing his disappointment, Das wrote, “Okay. Am I wrong, do all Apple Watches look like this or is @ZeptoNow @zeptocares being shady with China copies? By the way, their customer device agent on the phone said there’s nothing they could do. Full scam. We needed one quick for a shoot. They charged us 50k.”
The platform later responded, saying it had initiated a reverse pickup and investigation into the matter.
While both the actor and the delivery company may rectify this issue in the future, this incident has struck a nerve with consumers since it highlights one of the biggest concerns of many online consumers: what happens when convenience moves faster than verification?
Indian shopping habits are changing thanks to a new shopping platform that has evolved from grocery delivery and emergency services to an entire e-commerce platform, where customers can make purchases quickly and get the same item within minutes. Customers aren’t just paying for speed; they’re paying for trust. And trust is fragile.
The incident with Vir Das had widespread public support and is not limited to customers of the app. The incident has added to concern about how rapidly changing ecommerce practices are creating tension between convenience and accountability.
