Malabar Distilleries, Kerala government’s second distillery, is working on brand registration for an affordable Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) brand. The Excise department is expected to give clearance for the same soon. After the launch of the low-cost ‘Jawan’ brand by Travancore Sugars and Chemicals in Thiruvalla, the Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) is working on the new IMFL brand to be produced at Malabar Distilleries
A public contest to suggest a brand name and logo had triggered controversy. Following High Court intervention, court approval became mandatory for finalising the name. Over 10,000 suggestions were received from the public of which 100 have been shortlisted and the final name will be decided at the BEVCO board meeting.
According to reports, construction of the blending unit is progressing rapidly. Storage facilities for extra neutral alcohol (ENA), water and blended liquor are ready. The three-line blending unit will have a daily production capacity of 13,500 cases.
Meanwhile, Malabar Distilleries has agreed to pay Rs 4.47 crore in provident fund dues of the defunct Menonpara Cooperative Sugar Factory. The first instalment of Rs 1.61 crore has been paid. Once the remaining amount is cleared, the dues can be settled, and the factory’s land reclaimed by clearing the lien.