Empowering Indian Kirana Stores: An AI Chatbot Framework to Compete in the Quick Commerce Market

Abstract The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries across the globe, and India’s traditional retail sector—anchored by its millions of Kirana stores—is no exception. These small, neighborhood shops have long been the backbone of Indian retail, offering convenience, trust, and personalized service. However, with the rise of quick commerce platforms offering lightning-fast delivery and app-based convenience, Kirana stores are under mounting pressure to evolve. This research introduces Kirana Buddy, an AI-powered chatbot framework tailored specifically for the needs of these hyperlocal retailers. Designed to automate order-taking, manage inventory intelligently, and provide actionable customer insights, Kirana Buddy enables store owners to digitally transform without losing their personal touch. By leveraging widely used platforms like WhatsApp, this solution keeps the technology accessible while enhancing operational efficiency. The paper delves into AI's retail evolution, the unique socio-economic role of Kirana stores, the disruption caused by quick commerce, and how this innovation offers a path forward for their digital empowerment.