M&S gin liqueurs found to appeal to kids

Complaints against a trio of gins, including two Marks & Spencer liqueurs, have been upheld for appealing to under-18s and failing to clearly communicate their alcoholic content.

Two Snow Globe Gin Liqueurs produced by retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) – the Clementine Light Up Snow Globe Gin Liqueur, and the Spiced Sugar Plum Light Up Snow Globe Gin Liqueur – were also considered to be in breach of rules about appealing to minors.

Furthermore the Independent Complaints Panel ruled the alcoholic nature of the drink was not communicated on the packaging with ‘absolute clarity’.

M&S has agreed to work with the Portman Group’s Advisory Service to fix the products.

In addition, Mango and Black Pepper Gin, created by JG Drinks, trading as Copper in the Clouds, was found to breach rules about ensuring packaging does not have particular appeal to under-18s.

The gin bottle featured illustrations of a tiger and a parrot, which the Portman Group’s Independent Complaints Panel deemed would appeal to people under 18. The brand has agreed to work with the Advisory Service to amend the design.

Nicola Williams, chair of the Independent Complaints Panel, said: “I encourage all producers to think carefully about the overall impression conveyed when designing a product that could inadvertently appeal to under-18s.

“All three products in question had multiple contributing factors in this regard, including their use of child-friendly images and illustrations.

“Also, alcoholic drinks must always convey their alcoholic nature very clearly to ensure consumers are fully informed when purchasing. The two gin liqueurs lacked clear indications of this and were thus upheld.”

In May this year, the panel upheld a complaint against Zymurgorium gin liqueurs that claimed the packaging would appeal to under-18s.