Kerala's Largest Premium Liquor Outlet Opens at Kochi Metro Station
The Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) has inaugurated its largest and most upscale liquor outlet in the state, marking a significant expansion of its premium retail presence. The new boutique, named 'High Spirits - A Bevco Boutique', officially opened its doors on Friday at the Vyttila Metro station in Kochi.
A Flagship Store with International Standards
Spanning an impressive 4,600 square feet on the ground floor of the station, the fully air-conditioned outlet is designed to offer a world-class shopping experience. It features all premium liquor brands in a secure environment with 24/7 CCTV surveillance, aiming to elevate Kochi's profile as a modern destination for business and tourism events.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) Managing Director Loknath Behra, who symbolically purchased a whisky bottle and presented it to Excise Commissioner M R Ajith Kumar. This act underscored the collaborative effort between transportation and retail sectors.
Transforming Metro Stations into Commercial Hubs
Loknath Behra expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, "Extremely happy that a Bevco outlet of international standards has been opened at Vyttila Metro station, which provides unparalleled connectivity as a transit hub. This is part of a broader vision to transform Metro stations into vibrant commercial hubs rather than mere transit points."
This development follows an agreement signed in April between KMRL and Bevco to establish premium liquor outlets at two key Metro stations: Vyttila and Vadekkekota. While the Vyttila outlet has received the necessary excise department approvals and is now operational, the license for the Vadakkekotta station outlet is still in process.
Strategic Expansion and Economic Benefits
'High Spirits' represents Bevco's third super premium outlet in Kerala, joining existing locations in Thrissur and Kozhikode. The corporation's Managing Director, Harshita Attaluri, highlighted the strategic importance of this expansion: "We hope it will give people of Kochi a super-premium experience. With a secure and world-class shopping environment, the boutique aims to elevate Kochi's image as a modern destination for MICE (meeting, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) events."
Authorities anticipate that the new outlet will not only boost Bevco's revenue but also increase ridership for the Kochi Metro system. This initiative aligns with KMRL's strategy to lease commercial spaces at Metro stations and Water Metro terminals to enhance non-fare revenue streams.
Operational Details and Regulations
The outlet operates from 10 AM to 9 PM daily and accepts all modern payment methods for customer convenience. According to Bevco officials, purchase limits are set as follows:
- Up to three liters of Indian Made Foreign Liquor
- Up to two liters of Foreign Made Foreign Liquor
- Up to 3.5 liters of beer
While customers are permitted to carry sealed liquor bottles on the Metro, strict regulations prohibit public alcohol consumption or traveling with opened bottles. This balance aims to maintain public decorum while facilitating retail access.
The launch of 'High Spirits' at Vyttila Metro station represents a significant step in Kerala's retail and transportation integration, offering premium products in a strategically located, modern setting.
