SABMiller leads charge on responsible retailing

SABMiller has teamed up with the BII to sponsor 500 pub and shop workers through a responsible retailing qualification.

The SABMiller Scholars Programme will see candidates sit the BIIAB Level 2 Award in Responsible Alcohol Retailing. The course will give them an understanding about the risk of underage sales, intoxication and licensing laws. The funding is open to all pub and shop owners.

The scheme attracted high praise from Association of Chief Police Officers lead on alcohol licensing Simon O'Brien.

"We would like such thinking to expand so the industry is fully seen as driving attitudes, behaviour and responsible trading towards a real culture change that challenges binge drinking and irresponsible trading by a small minority," he said.

Kristin Wolfe, head of Alcohol Policy at SABMiller, added: "While most large companies offer staff training for those selling alcohol, many smaller shops and pubs simply can't afford this sort of scheme.

"SABMiller's Scholars Programme will give small and medium-sized enterprises a helping hand towards the achievement of a national qualification for their staff, encouraging a training culture in those businesses and having an important impact on the life of their communities."

Wolfe stressed that while training is important in combating irresponsible drinking, ultimately the responsibility lies with each individual.

Tenants, lessees, freeholders and independent store owners interested in accessing the funds to get their staff qualified for free should contact the QA Department at BIIAB on 01276 684449. Staff working in managed houses or stores will not be eligible to apply.