Cigarette and liquor shops are among UPI's fastest growers

#Cigarette and #Liquor shops have seen one of the highest growths in #UPI usage over the last two years.
At first glance, it’s just a data point. But it quietly reflects how behaviour, technology, and social norms are changing.
1. Rising acceptance
Despite increased awareness of health risks, #smoking and #drinking are becoming more socially acceptable. What was earlier discreet is now casual for many.
2. From #cash to comfort with digital trails
Earlier, cash was preferred; a liquor store showing up on a bank statement could raise eyebrows at home, but not anymore!
3. The #QRCode effect
UPI has made payments frictionless. Almost every small shop now has a QR code. An unintended upside: many of these merchants now have a digital footprint, helping them access formal #credit for the first time.

A small but telling detail:
The average UPI transaction at a cigarette shop is around ₹60.
Which suggests people aren’t just buying cigarettes, they’re picking up tea, coffee, toffees… and often paying for colleagues too.

So you have a Sutta friend, who pays for your Sutta, every time you go out 😉