Retail sector wants to be open 24/7

The Rs 90,000-crore organised retail sector has for the first time voiced a demand for flexible working hours across the country.

The Retailers' Association of India (RAI) is negotiating with various state governments to allow "24/7" operational freedom to malls and department stores.

The body is talking to Maharashtra, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh for amendments in trade and labour rules.

"Four states, including AP, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and AP have responded positively to the proposal," said Gibson G Vedamani, chief executive officer, RAI.

The demand stems from the widely varying timing regulations followed by different states, restricting large retail stores from keeping open beyond a certain hour (9 or 10 pm), especially in the metros and other cities. The regulations also call for a mandatory weekly off.