New Delhi: Quick commerce platforms emerged as the biggest winners this Valentine’s season, recording a 48% year-on-year jump in order volumes, according to data released by Unicommerce.
The analysis, based on over 15 million order items processed on Unicommerce’s flagship platform Uniware across quick commerce platforms, marketplaces and D2C brand websites between February 1 and 10, 2026, highlights the growing role of impulse buying and instant deliveries in occasion-led shopping.
While overall e-commerce volumes grew by approximately 17% compared to the same period last year, quick commerce significantly outpaced other channels. D2C brand websites saw around 16% growth in order volumes, while marketplaces recorded roughly 14% growth.
Gifting Expands Beyond Flowers and Chocolates
The data indicates a clear shift in gifting preferences this year, with consumers moving beyond traditional Valentine’s staples. In addition to flowers and chocolates, popular categories included gourmet snacks, artisanal teas, beauty and personal care products such as perfumes, skincare kits and makeup combos. Gifting items like couple coffee mugs and cushions also saw traction, alongside practical lifestyle and wellness products, reflecting a broader view that “anything can be a gift.”
Nationwide Momentum Across Tiers
Valentine’s Day sales growth was visible across geographies. Tier 1 cities and metros reported approximately 19% growth, Tier 2 cities saw around 14% growth, while Tier 3 cities matched metros with nearly 18% growth. The data suggests that both urban centres and emerging markets are increasingly embracing e-commerce for occasion-driven purchases.
Smart Reminders Drive Last-Minute Conversions
The report also highlights the role of targeted digital engagement in converting intent into transactions. Data from Unicommerce’s marketing automation platform Convertway shows that brands managed over 1.2 million customer interactions via SMS, WhatsApp, RCS and its AI voice agent, Catalyst, during the Valentine’s period.
These personalised nudges translated into more than 18,000 orders, generating approximately ₹35 million in sales. The findings underscore how AI-driven messaging, smarter warehouse management and improved delivery planning are enabling brands to efficiently fulfil last-minute shopping demands.
Overall, the Valentine’s Day data reflects a fast-moving, real-time e-commerce ecosystem where speed, convenience and targeted engagement are redefining how consumers shop for special occasions.
