RAI Welcomes Maharashtra’s 24x7 Retail Operation Move

The Maharashtra Government’s clarification on 24x7 shop operations brings flexibility for consumers and new employment opportunities for retailers.

The Retailers Association of India (RAI) has welcomed the Maharashtra Government’s decision to allow all shops and establishments in the state to operate 24x7, excluding liquor stores. The government has also confirmed that employees must receive a mandatory 24-hour weekly rest period.

Reacting to the announcement, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of RAI, stated,

“We, at RAI, have been advocating for this since a long time and we appreciate the Government's move to help consumers buy when they want and allow retailers to serve at all times. This move will create 5-10% additional jobs, besides providing flexibility and convenience to customers.”

The decision underscores the progressive intent of the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act, 2017, and relieves retailers of challenges caused by inconsistent local enforcement. With uninterrupted operational hours, retailers are expected to benefit from increased sales and smoother business continuity — especially during the upcoming festive season, when consumer demand peaks.

While the 2017 Act already permitted round-the-clock business operations, many retailers faced restrictions from local police authorities, who often directed shops to close by midnight. Following representations from RAI, the Maharashtra Government issued a clarification confirming that, except liquor shops, businesses may operate 24x7, provided all employees receive a weekly day off.

The official clarification can be accessed here.

RAI continues to work closely with state governments across India to promote the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and has consistently urged departments to implement State Retail Trade Policies enabling 24x7 retail operations nationwide.