The sole liquor outlet at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport is grappling with severe stock shortages, leaving shelves empty and customers disappointed. Despite the recent renewal of its contract, the store, located in Terminal 3’s arrival section, has faced supply chain disruptions since March, significantly impacting its operations and revenue.
Operated by the Delhi Consumers’ Cooperative Wholesale Store Ltd (DCCWS), the outlet caters to both domestic and international travelers. Sources reveal that the delay in stock replenishment has caused daily average sales to plummet from ₹3.04 lakh in January to ₹2.20 lakh in May, with a notable improvement only in March when the stock was briefly refilled.
Airport authorities have expressed growing concerns, with officials writing multiple times to the DCCWS to address the issue. “Request you to intervene in getting the stock replenished at the earliest,” read an email from airport management. Despite the urgency, stock has yet to be replenished.
Renewal Hurdles and Revenue Losses
According to DCCWS officials, this is the first time the cooperative has managed a liquor store at the airport, leading to procedural and operational hiccups. The contract, which expired on June 6, has now been renewed for two years. Officials assured that fresh orders would commence, with stock expected to arrive imminently.
A source highlighted the scale of revenue losses, stating, “A significant amount of revenue has been lost due to the stock shortage. Being located at an international airport, the store has a large customer base seeking premium liquor.”
The Bigger Picture
The outlet reopened nearly two years after being shut down following investigations into the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021–22. Its reestablishment, complete with a 24×7 self-service model, marked an effort to enhance customer convenience. However, persistent operational challenges threaten the outlet’s ability to capitalize on its strategic location and meet consumer demand.
As the liquor store navigates its renewed contract and resolves supply chain issues, it underscores the complexities of operating within high-demand hospitality zones like airports, where delays can have significant financial and reputational consequences.
Source: The Indian Express
