A new proposal that seeks to restrict alcohol advertising and promotion in Scotland has been met with concern over the “damaging impact” it could have on convenience retailers.
Similar to the location restrictions cited in HFSS law, it could ban aisle-end displays of alcohol, restrict the use of mixed alcohol and non-alcohol aisles, and cover alcohol that sits behind tills like tobacco. It could also restrict window displays of alcohol in stores.
The Scottish government published the proposal for consultation last week and is inviting responses by 9 March. It forms part of a wider overhaul that could also see restrictions across sport and events sponsorship, outdoor and public space marketing, print and online advertising, brand-sharing and merchandise, and TV and radio.
Trade bodies the Association of Convenience Stores and Scottish Grocers’ Federation have said the potential restrictions to both alcohol marketing and HFSS products in stores would have a detrimental impact on the Scottish convenience sector.
“SGF and our membership are committed to the aim of a healthier nation but government must recognise that the constant conveyor belt of legislation is crippling business agility and entrepreneurship, the very things we need to stimulate economic recovery,” said SGF CEO Pete Cheema.
“Convenience retailing businesses are operating in an exceptionally challenging trading environment which is characterised by the industry being exposed to soaring energy costs, rising inflation, and rising interest rates and a cost of living crisis.”
ACS CEO James Lowman highlighted the cost and requirements to change store layouts as key issues.
“The Scottish government’s consultation on significant interventions in the alcohol category would have huge implications for retailers operating in Scotland,” he said.
“Restrictions on the placement and promotion of alcohol products, at the same time that Scotland is also considering placement restrictions on HFSS products, would be extremely costly and require a total overhaul of store layouts. We will be engaging with members throughout the consultation process to highlight the damaging impact that these proposals would have on retailers.”
In July, the Scottish government published its HFSS proposals for consultation. However, there was concern they would cause “even more confusion” for retailers due to their stringent differences.
It suggested further promotional restrictions on meal deals and temporary price reductions, such as 10% off for a limited period, while proposing that island and bin displays should be another place in stores where HFSS products are limited, as well as at front of store, tills and end of aisles.
1 Readers' comment