NEW DELHI: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is set to enhance its amenities for domestic travelers with the addition of liquor shops. According to sources, Delhi Consumers’ Cooperative Wholesale Store Limited, one of the state-run corporations managing retail liquor outlets in the capital, will soon open a shop at T3’s arrival section. Another shop is expected to be established at T1’s departure area.
An official mentioned that the first shop, situated near the ‘meet and greet’ area of T3, is scheduled to commence operations by the first week of July. Currently, duty-free shops at T3 cater to international travelers, while domestic terminals had previously hosted six premium liquor stores under the now-rescinded Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. These were subsequently closed following investigations by investigative agencies, prompting a return to the previous excise regime managed by government corporations.
Despite initial discussions between Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation and Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation for retail space at the airport, no consensus was reached on rental terms. The upcoming shop at T3 arrival will occupy a modest 750 square feet, allowing customers to browse and select their preferred brands directly.
Nita Kapoor, CEO of the International Spirits and Wines Association of India, welcomed the development, emphasizing its significance for Delhi in reclaiming domestic liquor sales and boosting excise revenues. “The resumption of liquor shops at domestic terminals will be most welcomed by travelers into and from the city who earlier bought their choice of alcobev products on their way in or out of Delhi,” she stated. Kapoor also noted that this move would help the state regain sales lost to neighboring regions and further improve excise collections.
Alongside the economic benefits, the reintroduction of these shops is expected to improve convenience for travelers, who will now have access to a wider selection of alcobev products directly within the domestic terminals. This move aligns with global trends where major airports increasingly cater to both international and domestic passengers with diverse retail offerings. The decision also reflects efforts to enhance customer experience and promote local businesses, contributing to Delhi’s reputation as a cosmopolitan hub with robust infrastructure for air travel.
Vinod Giri, Director General of the Brewers Association of India, highlighted the role of airport liquor stores in projecting Delhi’s modern and progressive image. “Liquor stores at Indira Gandhi International Airport are not only a great retailing point for premium alcohol but also signify Delhi’s modern, tolerant, and progressive face,” he remarked. Giri further emphasized the potential for creating a convenient purchase point for travelers, enhancing the retail experience at the Delhi airport, and reinforcing the capital’s status as a forward-thinking city.
Efforts are underway to finalize lease agreements between government retailing corporations and airport authorities, aiming to restore these essential retail services and affirm Delhi’s stature as a forward-thinking metropolis.
