A part of German wholesaler Metro AG, Metro Cash & Carry has unveiled first store in the city of Kolkata with an investment of Rs 140 crore. About two months ago, the company had acquired the license to sell farm commodities and other food items in West Bengal. Talking to media about the setting up of the outlet, Metro Cash & Carry India managing director Martin Dlouhy stated that the recent step by the company has created job opportunities for the people of the region.

 

The company's Kolkata operation was in stake as Forward Bloc, a partner in the state's Left Front government, strongly opposed the renewal of the licence. Forward Bloc holds the responsibility of controlling agriculture and agricultural marketing departments of West Bengal. Although Metro Cash & Carry claimed to have invited the member of the Forward Bloc, none of them was present at the inaugural ceremony. Replying to a question asked on this matter, Forward Bloc leader and Agriculture Marketing Board chairman Naren Chatterjee said that the members Forward Bloc usually do not attend any ceremony of private companies.  

 

The new outlet of Metro Cash & Carry is set up over an area of 100,000 square feet. Apart from Kolkata store, the German wholesale major has five stores in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Mumbai. The inauguration ceremony of Metro Cash & Carry outlet was attended by cricket star Sourav Ganguly and state Sundarbans Affairs Minister Kanti Ganguly. The company hopes to provide high quality services and products to the people of Kolkata. As per company source, the purchase level at Metro Cash & Carry outlet starts from Rs 1000.