Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: The Kerala State Beverages (Manufacturing & Marketing) Corporation Ltd (BEVCO) is set to expand its retail network by launching 253 new liquor outlets across the state. These outlets, approved two years ago, are now becoming operational after overcoming challenges in securing rental properties. To streamline the process and eliminate middlemen, BEVCO introduced an online leasing system, which has significantly improved efficiency.
The initiative has received a strong response, with around 500 property owners expressing interest in renting their buildings. Currently, eight outlets have started operations, while seven more are in the final stages of obtaining excise clearance. Additionally, 25 buildings have undergone preliminary inspections, and rental agreements are being finalized.
Among the new outlets, 78 will replace stores that were previously shut down under the UDF government, while 175 new outlets have been sanctioned by the ruling Left government to reduce overcrowding at existing liquor stores. Previous attempts to acquire rental spaces faced obstacles, including local resistance and inflated rental costs due to intermediaries. However, the online leasing system introduced two months ago has effectively resolved these issues.
Launch of ‘Super Premium’ Liquor Outlets
In addition to standard liquor stores, BEVCO is gearing up to introduce ‘Super Premium’ outlets, offering enhanced customer experience and facilities superior to existing premium outlets. The first such stores will open in Vattiyoorkavu, Kozhikode, and Thrissur, where contracts for interior design and infrastructure enhancements have already been awarded. Liquor companies will be required to pay a fixed fee for product displays in these high-end outlets.
To enhance convenience, these outlets will feature dedicated vehicle parking facilities. Furthermore, starting April, all liquor bottles sold in Kerala will be mandatorily equipped with QR codes to combat counterfeiting. This system was successfully piloted at The Travancore Sugars and Chemicals Ltd. and will now be extended to private distilleries, ensuring authenticity and quality control in liquor sales.
