Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has introduced a new category of high-end liquor outlets—‘Super Premium FL OFF shops’—as part of its latest excise policy, aiming to modernize retail and cater to premium consumers.
The outlets will be set up in six major cities, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Berhampur, Sambalpur and Puri.
According to the policy, these shops must have a minimum area of 4,000 square feet and will feature premium infrastructure such as air-conditioning, modern interiors and curated selections of high-end foreign and Indian-made liquor.
In a key policy shift, the outlets will operate on a five-year license and will be exempt from the minimum guaranteed excise revenue requirement, a move aimed at encouraging investment in the premium retail segment.
Additionally, the shops may include wine-tasting rooms and sell luxury accessories, though liquor sales will be restricted to takeaway at Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
Officials said the initiative is intended to enhance consumer experience, align with evolving urban demand and support the state’s broader retail modernization efforts. However, the policy has also raised concerns over potential social and public health implications.
-OdishaAge
