The introduction of a law restricting alcohol sales in the Vologda region has resulted in the closure or cessation of alcohol sales in 346 retail locations. This announcement was made on July 31 by Governor Georgy Filimonov.

Initially, the region housed 610 establishments referred to as “alcohol markets” at the start of the year. Presently, 280 of these have shut down, while over sixty continue operations, albeit without selling alcoholic beverages.

Among the businesses ceasing alcohol sales are 58 stores belonging to the “Krasnoe i Beloe” chain, according to Filimonov. Currently, the region has a total of 264 retail outlets specializing in alcohol sales.

The law has also impacted “nalivaikas” – retail stores permitting alcohol purchases despite time restrictions. Their numbers in Vologda and Cherepovets have nearly halved in the past four months.

Additionally, statistics regarding the closure of vape shops were provided. Before the start of summer, 316 such establishments were operating in the region. Since June 9, 100 have closed, with an additional 44 closing in July.

Governor Filimonov asserted that these restrictions are positively influencing healthcare statistics. He reported a 53% decrease in mortality rates from alcohol-related diseases and a 71% decrease in fatal alcohol poisoning cases within the region over the past four months.

Russian Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko previously highlighted the positive effects of the “dry law” on residents’ health in May. He noted a sharp 41% drop in mortality immediately following the implementation of alcohol sales restrictions in the Vologda region.

The law restricting alcohol sales in the Vologda region has been in effect since March 1. Alcohol purchases are now limited to a two-hour window on weekdays, from 12:00 to 14:00.