KOZHIKODE: A week after the Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi (KVVES) announced its decision to stop the sale of Pepsi and Coca-Cola across the State from March 14, the largest traders' body in Kerala took a U-turn on Thursday. The association has come out with an excuse that the movement against the MNCs will only get the desired result if all the traders joined the protest.
“We have not deviated from our decision to boycott Pepsi and Coco Cola. As always, we are opposed to selling the multinational beverages. But there will be a real impact only if all other traders join us. We have requested Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to take the initiative in forming a consensus on the issue among all the traders in the State,” said KVVES State committee member Ashraf Moothedath.
KVVES, following the footsteps of traders in Tamil Nadu, had announced its decision to stop the sale of Pepsi and Coca cola in Kerala to register their protest against exploitation of ground water by the companies while the state was reeling under drought.
KVVES president T Nazaruddin had said the traders would make a formal announcement on the boycott on March 14 after seeking support of Chief Minister. According to him the traders had decided to promote local brands mainly lime soda and tender coconut to fight against the branded drinks.
Around seven lakh shops and traders were expected to join the protest, which would have been a major setback to the two companies.