UK drinks retailers to tackle alcohol misuse

Drinks retailers in the UK have pledged to raise standards on alcohol retailing in an effort to tackle alcohol misuse and encourage responsible drinking.

Working in partnership with the Government through the WSTA-supported Retail of Alcohol Standards Group, the retailers have agreed to a “substantial package of pledges” under the Responsibility Deal.

“Tackling alcohol-related harm is a key priority for the drinks industry and we are pleased that WSTA members have taken a leading role in developing a further set of practical measures designed to tackle the complex problem of alcohol misuse in the UK,” said Miles Beale, WSTA chief executive.

“The commitment to develop good practice guidance for the responsible retailing of alcohol represents an unprecedented level of cooperation between retailers.

“These exciting pledges show that by working with industry the Government can achieve aggregate deal as we continue to build a culture of more responsible drinking in the UK.”

The Responsibility Deal pledges made include industry support through targeted partnership schemes for areas with high alcohol-related harms, a review of the number of alcohol units contained in cans of carbonated products, training for 10,000 bar staff in the responsible retailing of alcohol, funding for an independent alcohol education trust and a commitment to offer lower alcohol house wines and beers in pubs.

“The latest round of voluntary pledges represent a package of wide-ranging, substantial and targeted measures that seek to bring about positive change,” commented Nick Hyde, WSTA chairman.

“The drinks industry is playing an important role, alongside Government and others, in promoting responsible drinking and it is pleasing to see the industry’s continued commitment to delivering meaningful action.”