The advertising content restrictions being proposed in the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill would hugely damage small players and new entrants to the market, as they wouldn’t be able to effectively advertise their products to consumers, according to the outlook by the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI) released today (30 January).
The group which represents drinks manufacturers and suppliers in Ireland raised serious concerns about the 'draconian' and 'disproportionate' advertising and labelling proposals in the Bill.
“The drinks industry is an important Irish industry, with innovation at its core. However, we are concerned about the unintended negative consequences of the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill.” Patricia Callan, Director of Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI) said.
Health Warnings
In a statement the ABFI said, that the Government is proposing to introduce health warnings on all alcohol products sold in the Republic of Ireland.
This reportedly includes a cancer warning on alcohol products, which ABFI said would put huge additional costs on producers. This increased cost would be particularly harmful for small local producers and new entrants.
“We have seen a number of new players and new products hit the market in recent years, which has supported growth.” Callan added.
“The Alcohol Bill could slow down or even reverse this growth, as it includes proposals that would act as a barrier to entry and a barrier to innovation. Furthermore, the Bill is being introduced at a tumultuous time for Irish business, with 2018 due to be a pivotal year in the Brexit negotiations. “
© 2018 - Checkout Magazine by Donna Ahern
