By Express News Service

KOZHIKODE: Following the footsteps of traders in Tamil Nadu, Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi (KVVES) has decided to stop sale of drinks produced by multinational cola companies to register their protest against exploitation of ground water by Coca-Cola and PepsiCo companies as the State is reeling under the threat of a severe drought.

The traders would make a formal announcement of the boycott on March 14 after seeking support of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, said KVVES president T Nazaruddin. The traders have decided to promote local brands--mainly lime soda and tender coconut to fight against the aerated drinks produced by multinational companies. Around seven lakh shops and traders will join the boycott and it will be a major setback to the two companies.



Nearly 70 per cent members of the Tamil Nadu Vanigar Angangalin Peramaippu (TNVSP) had stopped selling products of Coca-Cola and PepsiCo companies through their shops in Tamil Nadu from March 1. The TNVSP has around 6,000 traders’ associations with membership of around 15 lakh across the State.