Flipkart brings a series of initiatives to support its sellers and artisans

According to the press release, the efforts range from financial benefits, health and safety benefits, support through existing seller policies all the way through working capital, and insights provided to sellers on the platform. Under fee waivers, Flipkart has exempted the storage fees to curb the impact that any seller may have on their inventory that is fulfilled through Flipkart’s fulfilment centres. 

The company is also waiving off the cancellation fee until 31 May 2021, for orders that may have been cancelled due to lockdowns in various states. Prioritising the health and safety of all, Flipkart will bear 100% premium of COVID-19 insurance extended to all sellers, that covers their hospitalisation and consultation. In light of the current situation, the company has further updated its existing policies to safeguard 300,000 sellers and their businesses. Besides, Flipkart has extended the window for the Seller Protection Fund (SPF) within which sellers have to claim SPF on returned products – from the regular 14 days to now 30 days. 

Moreover, the company will further ease the policies and performance metrics for its sellers to ensure that their business growth is not impacted by state-led lockdowns. In order to further assist sellers with their operational and other capabilities, the company is providing easier access to working capital. Under this, all sellers impacted by pandemic related disruptions will have an option of early settlement (next-day payment) without any incremental cost. Transaction fee for the same will be borne by Flipkart.