Online retailer Flipkart is close to picking up a stake in Mumbai-based logistics and supply chain analytics start-up LogiNext Solutions Pvt Ltd. The e-marketplace company will provide series A investment of around $10-15 million for a 10-20 per cent stake.

LogiNext is also in talks with a group of other investors for additional funds. Founder Dhruvil Sanghvi declined to comment on the deal but sources close to the company said it would be closed within a couple of weeks.

Thus far, LogiNext has had a seed round of $2-3 million funding from Ajit Surana and Sanjay Mehta of the Indian Angel Network. The firm will use the fresh funds to build more capabilities in the logistics segment, one of the most crucial aspects of the e-commerce business. LogiNext, which has a 15-member team, also plans to go global this year.

LogiNext was founded by Sanghvi and Manisha Raisinghani, alumni of Carnegie Mellon University in the US, in January 2014.

Riding on big data

The start-up uses big data to help companies predict delays, cut costs, handle customer service and make last-mile delivery faster.

It also helps logistics companies track their shipments, delivery boys, vehicles and other assets on a real-time map interface.

Industry experts say Flipkart could be eyeing LogiNext’s technology to achieve faster delivery of products. Flipkart already has a logistics arm called eKart and a partnership with LogiNext could provide it with new tools. Flipkart did not respond to a questionnaire from BusinessLine .

Most online retailers are looking to ramp up their logistics capabilities to achieve faster turnarounds after receiving orders.

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