Producers of high-strength beer and cider need to step up to the mark and show their commitment to behaving resposibly, says Portman Group chief executive John Timothy: “It’s time for the industry to choose sides. If we tolerate rogue producers pushing cheap, high-strength beer and cider, don’t be surprised when the calls for tougher regulation get louder and stronger. Last month’s interview with Nigel McNally…

Jen Draper, head of marketing at Global Brands, looks at why the age-appropriate debate is growing old. Social media continues to be a major talking point for alcohol brands and retailers, especially around the topic of age-appropriateness. This is an important subject and it is necessary for social media marketing to be responsible. However, the questions raised around age…

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has appointed Dagmar Droogsma as Director of Industry. Droogsma most recently held the role of head of Defra’s unit responsible for EU strategy and negotiations. She has also held senior roles in the Civil Service, including at the Department for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, and at the Department for Energy and Climate Change. In her new role she…

Drinkaware ambassadors will be in 100 Asda stores across the UK on January 12 to hand out thousands of specially created alcohol assessment scratchcards to shoppers. These cards use a “factual, non-judgemental approach” to invite consumers to reflect on their drinking habits. Asda shoppers will be able to talk to the ambassadors about any concerns they have regarding their drinking levels or those of their…

Alcohol charity Drinkaware is joining forces with Asda to launch a responsible drinking campaign. On 12 January Drinkaware ambassadors will be on hand in 100 Asda stores, handing out alcohol assessment scratchcards which use a factual, non-judgemental approach to invite consumers to reflect on their drinking habits. Customers will also be able to talk to the ambassadors to discuss any concerns they have about their…