Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Jan 27: The capital city, Bengaluru, along with other parts of Karnataka, is facing an unofficial beer bandh (beer shortage). Beer enthusiasts are struggling as most outlets are running dry, unable to procure even a single bottle. Following a recent price hike, inadequate beer supply to the market has resulted in a significant shortage.
The state government has delivered another blow to beer lovers. Since January 20, beer prices have been increased by 20%. Following this hike, bars, wine shops, and MRP outlets are running out of stock. Beer supply has been halted since last Saturday. With the new price labels requiring sugar content information on the bottles, it is anticipated that beer supply may remain disrupted for the next few days.
Speaking on the issue, Lokesh, president of the Bengaluru Bar Owners Association, said that Karnataka's excise department revised beer prices and issued a notification for the price hike effective from January 20, 2025. He noted that rising temperatures have increased customer demand for beer, and urged the excise department to address the issue promptly.
The lack of beer supply is causing losses for bar owners and impacting their business. The excise department has instructed suppliers to hold off on distribution until new price labels are implemented, which are expected to arrive by Monday or Tuesday. Until then, beer supply is highly unlikely.
The absence of beer has reduced business by 20%, according to bar owners. Coupled with the price hike, sales may drop by an additional 10%. Krishna, a wine shop owner, shared that customers are expressing frustration as beer has not been available for the past 15 days.
Shivu, another liquor vendor, stated, "We are clearing old stock at the moment. However, customers are unable to access new beer supplies."
Last week, the government increased beer prices by Rs 10 to Rs 40. Along with this, it made sugar content labelling mandatory for all beer brands, requiring the labels to provide detailed information to consumers. This move has further disrupted the market, causing widespread shortages.