The article analyzes how a dark store network in a dense urban environment forms “micro-highways” and restructures the structure of retail logistics costs. Based on simulation calculations and pilot launches, three configurations are compared: the classic “distribution center — store — courier”, “store as a mini-warehouse” and “distribution center/peripheral hub — dark store — courier/pickup”. It is shown that with a service radius of up to 1.5–2 km and sufficient order density, dark stores reduce the total cost of an order due to a shortened shoulder, an increased share of first successful deliveries and discipline of time windows. The key risks are forecast errors, a shortage of curbside resources, returns and “cold shelves”. A practical framework is proposed: precise placement of hubs, a mixed inventory policy, moderate automation and coordination of night replenishments with the city. The result is a controlled cost without deteriorating service.