Portman Group: steep drop in complaints

This also marks a significant drop in the number of complaints since 2008, when the drinks industry watchdog dealt with more than 20 cases of irresponsible alcohol marketing. Indeed, 2009 and 2010 saw approximately half the complaints received in 2008 alone.

Its advisory service received more than 500 advice requests in 2010 — up nearly 50% on 2009 — as outlined in its newly-published Annual Alcohol Reponsibility Report, 'Alcohol in Society'.

“Keeping unsuitable products off the shelves rather than withdrawing them after going through a complaints process is clearly in the interests of the public,” it said.

The group has raised awareness of its code through a national press advertising campaign and announced a code review to face up to the challenge of ensuring marketing via digital media is up to scratch.

Portman has “pledged to play a key role” in the industry’s Responsibility Deal commitment with the Government by monitoring its goal of unit-labelling appearing on 80% of drinks containers by 2013.

The report also outlines the latest trends in alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harm. It said consumption per adult has fallen 11% since 2004 to 10.2 litres. The proportion of pupils saying they had drunk alcohol in the past week has also fallen to its lowest level (13%) since records began in 1998.

“Portman Group members believe education about alcohol, particularly among young people, and enforcement of appropriate laws are the key ways to change the UK drinking culture,” said Portman Group chairman Seymour Fortescue.

“This report aims to identify how alcohol producers can help create a responsible drinking culture in the UK.”

The report will be produced each year and is available to download from the group’s website: www.portmangroup.org.uk​.