The organised restaurant industry’s long drawn demand for extension of operation timing in the country finding favour with the Union Cabinet’s decision to amend the Model Shops and Establishments Bill, (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Services) Act 2016, enabling Indian States to permit businesses and establishments to open shops 24×7, the restaurant industry is hoping that States would relax rules in line with the Centre law.
A long votary for the relaxation of this Act, National Restaurant Asociation of India (NRAI), the representative body of the organised restaurant industry in the country, has welcomed the Union Cabinet’s decision. “It’s great that we have the freedom to choose. We are hoping and praying that the state would implement this. All this might come to nothing if the state and the police authorities do not allow this to happen,” Riyaaz Amlani, President, National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) told Hospitality Biz India.
AD Singh, Owner, Olive Bar and Kitchen, said that the initiative was a very positive step in the right direction. “As an industry, we welcome it. On the other hand, what I believe is that establishments catering to F&B should be open for 24 hours except in residential neighbourhoods because one should not be disturbing people when they sleep. In our country, a comprehensive policy is required which brings together the different parts of the government onto a platform and if Maharashtra can do that, it will be truly encouraging for both the consumer and the industry.” He also added that law and order could be a possible reservation that would prevent states from implementing the Bill, since the police authorities have often objected to initiatives like these previously.
Commenting on the bill, Saket Gupta, VP, Sales & Marketing, Mars Enterprises, who overseas restaurants such as Pizza By The Bay, Eat Around The Corner and Clock Tower Café, opined, “This move will definitely help boost sales and increase employment. It will give us an opportunity to showcase Mumbai as a modern city. Till now, with the deadline of 1:30 AM and other restrictions, people are drifting away from the city to celebrate. This will give them the opportunity to party all night and by party, I don’t mean loud music but dining and similar events. This acts as an aid to build a reputation for the city. And in this competitive world, who doesn’t want added revenue?”
The bill, which will cover establishments employing 10 or more workers except manufacturing units, aims at ensuring uniform working conditions across the country, ease of doing business whilst generating employment opportunities. The move will also provide an incremental tax income to the government.
