Online delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and BigBasket might soon start delivering low-alcohol drinks such as beer, wine, and liqueurs, reported the news.
Several states, including New Delhi, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala are considering pilot projects for this initiative, the report mentioned, citing industry executives.
They revealed that authorities are currently assessing the pros and cons of allowing alcohol deliveries.
In 2020, Swiggy and Zomato launched online alcohol delivery in non-metro areas to diversify their services during the COVID-19 lockdown when their core business was significantly impacted.
Swiggy began its alcohol delivery service in Ranchi after obtaining the necessary approvals from the Jharkhand government. Zomato followed suit, launching in Ranchi and planning to expand to seven other cities in Jharkhand.
At that time, both companies were also in talks with authorities in major metros to extend their services, although approvals were expected to take a few weeks to a month. Swiggy even planned to expand to cities in Odisha but had to pause due to cyclone Amphan.
Delivery of alcohol to homes is permitted only in Odisha and West Bengal, according to the report. The temporary approval for liquor deliveries during the COVID-19 lockdown in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Assam was a success despite restrictions, per the ET report. According to retail industry executives, online deliveries have resulted in a 20-30% increase in sales in West Bengal and Odisha.
