Professional body urges pubs and off licences to operate responsibly during the World Cup
12-Jun-2006
The World Cup is upon us and now is the time that the licensed trade needs to show its commitment to responsible alcohol retailing, BII, the professional body for the licensed retail, warned today.
The World Cup will see more people drinking in pubs, emotions running high and alcohol consumption increasing. Bar staff potentially will be faced with the challenge of upholding their responsibilities under the Licensing Act by not serving intoxicated customers or selling to underage drinkers, which at a busy time can be hard. Pubs will also be taking on casual, sometimes inexperienced, staff to cope with the increase of business.
John McNamara, BII Chief Executive, said, “I am encouraged that more people will be enjoying pubs over the World Cup period, but I am also aware of the challenges this poses to bar staff. The football can attract more under age drinkers attempting to purchase alcohol both in pubs and in off licences and supermarkets. Responsible alcohol retailers need to ensure that they have the confidence and knowledge to challenge drinkers and to uphold the law.
He added, “In-house training can help staff understand the law but I would encourage as many front line staff members as possible to take our BIIAB Award in Responsible Alcohol Retailing. This can be delivered in a day and gives staff the knowledge they need to operate responsibly whatever the situation.
Mr McNamara concluded, “I want to see pubs and other alcohol retailers showing that they can be an asset to the community and not a thorn in its side during the World Cup and beyond.”
Notes to editors
The BIIAB Level 1 Award in Responsible Alcohol Retailing is designed for anyone, including bar staff and supermarket cashiers, who work on any licensed retail premises from pubs to convenience stores and is involved in the sale of alcohol. The qualification provides essential knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities of alcohol retailers authorised by a personal licence holder to sell alcohol. It will enable those who complete the qualification to act within the law to support the designated premises supervisor to retail alcohol responsibly on their licensed premises- BII is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2006. BII is the professional body for the licensed retail sector and has over 17,500 members, and 50 patron and corporate members. In 2005 BII's Awarding Body (BIIAB) processed 190,350 qualifications. BII's mission is to promote high standards of professionalism throughout the licensed retail sector; to encourage new entrants into the industry, and to help them develop their long-term careers. We provide all our members with the information, skills and qualifications to help them succeed in their business activities.
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| Contact | Melanie Taylor Communications Manager 01276 417863/ 07795 394660 |
