The exclusive cloud partnership between Microsoft Azure and Indian e-commerce startup Flipkart appears to have come to an end, with Flipkart now signing a deal with Google Cloud in an investment worth $350 million. TechCrunch reported that Google’s investment is part of a nearly $1 billion funding round led by Walmart, with the overall investment from Walmart totaling at least $600 million since last year.
Analysts at Bernstein noted that while Amazon and Flipkart remain leaders in the Indian e-commerce market, there is potential for other companies in categories like fast commerce, tier 2+ marketplaces, and vertical commerce to emerge as winners. Flipkart has been a major player in India since 2007 and is currently valued at over $33 billion, but faces strong competition from companies like Reliance Retail, Meesho, and Amazon.
The strategic partnership between Microsoft and Flipkart was announced in 2017, with Flipkart using Microsoft Azure as its exclusive public cloud platform. This partnership allowed Flipkart to utilize Azure AI and analytics tools to enhance merchandising, marketing, and customer service to provide more personalized customer experiences.
Microsoft chief Satya Nadella expressed the company’s goal of equipping every Indian and organization with technology through strategic partnerships with innovative companies like Flipkart.
In summary, the exclusive cloud partnership between Microsoft Azure and Flipkart has ended, with Flipkart now entering into a deal with Google Cloud. The Indian e-commerce startup faces strong competition in the market but continues to grow and is now valued at over $33 billion. The partnership with Microsoft allowed Flipkart to utilize Azure’s AI and analytics tools to enhance customer experiences. Microsoft’s goal is to empower every Indian and organization with technology through collaborations with innovative companies like Flipkart.
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https://mspoweruser.com/google-cloud-joins-flipkart-with-350m-investment-ending-azure-exclusivity/