Counterfeit spirits crackdown

The crackdown on counterfeit spirits has been stepped up by the International Federation of Spirits Producers (IFSP) amid fears the recession will tempt more licensees into fraudulently refilling branded bottles with cheaper alternatives.

The association, which is backed by a group of spirits producers including Diageo, Pernod Ricard and Bacardi, is planning to ramp up its work with local authorities across the UK and promote its work to consumers.

Working with Trading Standards the IFSP has already reduced instances of substitution by 80% in the past 10 years, saving consumers from being ripped off to the tune of £30m, said director Philip Scatchard.

"It's vital to ensure a level playing field for licensees and prevent some gaining an unfair and illegal advantage over others," he said.

The organisation will be continuing its work with 30 local authorities, which has already resulted in more than 5,412 visits to licensed premises and more than 16,000 tests to check for brand authenticity.

It will also be raising awareness of the issue with consumers and will promote its awards scheme, which is designed to reward authorities that have been most active in preventing the sale of substitute spirits.

Last year 30 authorities were rewarded for their work, including Blackpool, Powys, Conwy and Isle of Anglesey councils, all of which won gold awards and training vouchers.

"The IFSP encourages licensees to guard against substitution and advises that bottles should not be refilled, even with the same brand," said Scatchard. "Many do not realise that the European law on traceability and HMRC regulations on duty stamps make it illegal to refill a bottle for resale, even with the correct product."