TASMAC staff in Erode continue strike for third day over empty bottle collection scheme

TASMAC employees in the district continued their protest for the third consecutive day on Wednesday (May 27, 2026), opposing the State-run liquor retailer’s directive to collect empty liquor bottles from customers under the newly-introduced bottle buy back scheme.

The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) had announced that customers returning empty liquor bottles would receive ₹10 per bottle. Employees, however, objected to the move, citing practical difficulties in handling and storing empty bottles at retail outlets. They demanded that separate agencies or personnel be appointed for the collection process.

During earlier discussions, trade union representatives urged the TASMAC administration either to suspend the scheme after May 24 or appoint dedicated agents to manage bottle collection. The administration reportedly rejected the demand and warned employees of disciplinary action if they failed to implement the order.

Of the 183 TASMAC outlets in the district, a majority of the shops remained closed as employees joined the agitation. More than 1,000 workers participated in the protest and staged a demonstration in front of the TASMAC regional manager’s office.

On Wednesday, union representatives continued negotiations with officials. Meanwhile, with outlets remaining shut for three days, customers turned to premium liquor outlets and bars, where footfall and sales reportedly increased.