Home Delivery of Liquor Through Swiggy, BigBasket, Zomato, and Blinkit Coming Soon?
Home Delivery of Liquor Through Swiggy, BigBasket, Zomato, and Blinkit Coming Soon?
States such as New Delhi, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala are considering pilot projects for home delivery of liquor, according to a recent report. Delivery platforms like Swiggy, BigBasket, and Zomato might soon start delivering low-alcohol beverages such as beer, wine, and liqueurs. The Economic Times cited industry executives who confirmed that authorities are evaluating the pros and cons of this move.
Currently, home delivery of alcohol is permitted only in Odisha and West Bengal. An executive mentioned that the initiative aims to cater to the growing expatriate population in major cities and accommodate consumers who prefer moderate alcohol consumption with meals. This includes women and senior citizens who often find traditional liquor shops unpleasant.
Dinker Vashisht, vice-president of corporate affairs at Swiggy, highlighted that online models ensure comprehensive transaction records, age verification, and adherence to regulations such as delivery limits, timings, and dry days.
During the Covid-19 lockdowns, states like Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Assam allowed temporary liquor deliveries with restrictions. Retail industry executives reported a 20-30% increase in sales in West Bengal and Odisha due to online deliveries. Rahul Singh, chief executive of The Beer Cafe, told the Economic Times, “By enabling online home deliveries of liquor, states can enhance consumer convenience, drive economic growth, and align with global trends while ensuring responsible and regulated alcohol distribution.”
