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In the vibrant hills of Gangtok, a startup has emerged as a formidable competitor to the delivery giants Swiggy and Zomato. Founded in 2020 by Nitin and Mandira Chettri, along with Kunga Dhoundup Bhutia and Tashi Damdul Bhutia, DASH Sikkim has swiftly become Gangtok’s largest food delivery service. Despite launching during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, this startup has shown resilience and innovation, capturing the local market with its unique approach and dedication.

The Genesis of DASH Sikkim

The story of DASH Sikkim begins with its founders, who were no strangers to entrepreneurship. Nitin and Mandira Chettri were already known for their work with O2 Himalaya. Their experience in the restaurant business and their keen understanding of the local market laid the foundation for DASH Sikkim. Partnering with Kunga and Tashi, they identified a gap in the food delivery sector in Gangtok and decided to address it head-on.

Overcoming Initial Hurdles

When DASH Sikkim started operations in 2020, it was the third food delivery service in Gangtok. The first two companies had already exited the market, unable to sustain operations during the pandemic. The initial months were tough for DASH Sikkim as well, with only 150 orders in the first month and significant struggles over the next six months due to lockdowns and logistical challenges posed by Gangtok’s hilly terrain.

However, the founders’ determination paid off. They capitalised on the lack of reliable delivery services in the region, forming partnerships with five local restaurants. As the pandemic subsided, their business began to pick up, with a clear advantage: a deep understanding of the local market and terrain that their competitors lacked.

Rising Above the Giants

Despite Swiggy and Zomato entering the Gangtok market in 2022 and 2023 respectively, DASH Sikkim managed to hold its ground and even thrive. By the end of FY 2024, the company reported a revenue of INR 1.5 crore and became operationally profitable without any external funding. Their success can be attributed to their strategic local partnerships and a keen focus on customer satisfaction.

DASH Sikkim now boasts partnerships with over 50 restaurants and handles around 46,000 orders annually. In contrast, Swiggy and Zomato have only managed to secure 20-30 restaurants each on their platforms in Gangtok. DASH Sikkim’s local roots and understanding of the community have enabled them to forge exclusive partnerships with top-performing restaurants, cementing their position as the market leader.

The Team Behind the Success

The founding team of DASH Sikkim brings together diverse expertise and a shared vision. Nitin and Mandira’s background in restaurant marketing, combined with Kunga and Tashi’s entrepreneurial experience, has created a strong foundation for the startup. Their journey began with a conversation over coffee, brainstorming ways to address specific needs in Gangtok’s delivery sector. This casual discussion led to the realisation of a significant opportunity, and DASH Sikkim was born.

Beyond Food Delivery: A Holistic Approach

While food delivery remains their primary focus, DASH Sikkim has also ventured into other areas to meet local needs. They introduced a pick-and-drop service to address the logistical challenges in Gangtok. This service quickly gained popularity, offering everything from document delivery to check deposits at nominal costs. Their ability to adapt and innovate has set them apart from the competition.

Employment and Economic Impact

DASH Sikkim has not only transformed the food delivery landscape in Gangtok but also created significant employment opportunities. The startup directly employs around 20 people and indirectly supports over 200 individuals through partnerships with local restaurants and other businesses. Their impact on the local economy is substantial, demonstrating how startups can drive growth and development in their communities.

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Innovation

The future looks promising for DASH Sikkim. The founders are keen on securing funding to fuel their expansion plans and explore new ventures within the delivery sector. They aim to extend their services beyond Gangtok, leveraging their local success to tap into new markets. Their focus remains on solving real problems with innovative solutions, staying true to their roots while embracing growth.