The Jersey Hospitality Association has welcomed the Licensing Assembly’s decision to remove the restrictions on drinks promotions in on-trade venues after it successfully made the case to lift the guidance that had been in force for decades.
Representing businesses in the hospitality sector, the Jersey Hospitality Association (JHA) wrote to the Attorney General earlier this year to request a review of the guidance. Following a recommendation from the Attorney General to lift the restrictions, the JHA appeared before the Licensing Assembly this morning, arguing that they had caused a growing gap between on and off-trade prices which had led to unintended consequences such as increased at-home drinking, pre-loading and binge drinking.
Marcus Calvani, Co-CEO of the Jersey Hospitality Association, said: “When the guidance was put in place in 1987, there were concerns about excessive alcohol consumption in premises where prices had been significantly reduced. That was nearly 30 years ago and more recently, across the board rises in costs have meant pubs, bars and restaurants were being significantly undercut by off-licence traders, leading people to buy cheap alcohol in shops and drink significantly more than if they were out meeting friends. With the on-trade now able to independently manage their business with fewer restrictions and when desired, reduce prices or create offers for their customers, there will be a slightly more level playing field in the trade. The cost of products and operating won’t reduce, but we hope that the removal of this barrier to business will encourage more Islanders and visitors to go out, enjoy what our industry has to offer, socialise more often in licensed establishments and have some more affordable fun.
“It has taken a lot of work by the JHA to get this restriction removed and we would like to personally thank the Health Minister, Deputy Tom Binet, the Minster for Sustainable Economic Development, Deputy Kirsten Morel, and the Police Chief, Robin Smith, who have all worked with us to agree solutions, remove barriers and help grow the visitor economy.
“We would urge our members to use this responsibly to benefit their businesses. Guidance of this type can easily be brought back if the rules are abused and those that don’t follow their license conditions can expect to be dealt with by the authorities. But this is great news for Jersey as we want to see people back in licensed premises, supporting the visitor economy and encouraging responsible social interaction.”
