Platforms like Swiggy, BigBasket, and Zomato might start delivering liquor, beginning with low-alcohol beverages like beer, wine, and liqueurs.
According to a report, states such as New Delhi, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala are considering trial projects for the same.
Executives mentioned that authorities are evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of this potential change. Currently, alcohol delivery is permitted at home in Odisha and West Bengal.
"This is to cater to a growing expat population, especially in larger cities, changing profiles of consumers who perceive moderate alcohol-content spirits as recreational drinking along with meals, and women and senior citizens who have flagged buying from traditional liquor vends and shop-front experiences as unpleasant," one of the executives said as per the report.
"Online models ensure end-to-end transaction records, age verification and adhere to limits. Further, online tech stacks synchronise with regulatory and excise requirements, ensuring adherence to timings, dry days and zonal delivery guardrails," Dinker Vashisht, vice-president, corporate affairs at Swiggy as per the report.
During the COVID-19 lockdowns in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Assam, there was temporary permission for liquor deliveries, although with certain limitations in place.
Retail industry executives have reported a 20-30% rise in sales in West Bengal and Odisha due to online deliveries.
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