Tough conditions for alcohol sales in Greater Manchester

Published: 23 November, 2010

Greater Manchester is proposing a bylaw which would ban the sale of alcohol for less that 50p per unit, force retailers to show alcohol content and outlaw pub loyalty cards.

Retailers could face fines of £500 if they breach the proposed bylaw, which would ban the sale of alcohol for under 50p per unit, any alcohol sales unless the unit content is "clearly advertised" and loyalty or reward cards which permit alcohol purchases using a credit note or token.

Under the proposals, drinkers in the region would have to pay at least £6 for a six-pack of lager and £4.50 for a standard bottle of wine.

The Association of Convenience Stores has recommended further work to look at the feasibility of creating a bylaw to introduce a minimum price.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: "ACS is unconvinced that a minimum price imposed by government would have the desired impact on problem drinkers. Our fear is that it will serve only to decrease affordability for responsible consumers.

"We strongly oppose imposing a minimum price at a local level as this would create significant confusion and inconsistency for retailers. It would also result in loss of business as people look to shop in other areas depending on their individual pricing policies."

The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities will meet on November 26 to discuss the bylaw.

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