Bangkok--1 Dec--Hill & Knowlton
Five major players in the industry plan to present the results of their review to the Government so that a way forward can be agreed
A representative group of five alcohol manufacturers and importers consisting of Bacardi (Thailand) Limited, Riche Monde (Bangkok) Ltd., Pernod Ricard (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Thai Asia Pacific Brewery Co., Ltd., SIAM WINERY TRADING PLUS CO., LTD confirm their support of the government’s intention to reduce alcohol consumption abuse, particularly among underage drinkers. However they do not believe that a total ban on advertising is an effective means to achieving this objective
To demonstrate their commitment to resolving the underage consumption issue, all five members have announced that they will conduct a review of the media channels they use to advertise their brands, with a view to discontinuing any channel that might inadvertently be reaching out to underage consumers.
They also confirm that until their review is completed, all members will voluntarily suspend advertising in all mass media (TV, press, radio, public billboard, cinema, BTS and MRT screens) starting December 4th during what is normally known as the peak sales period, until early January 2007.
The individual members of the group recognise the need to promote the responsible consumption of alcohol amongst adults only. They believe that countering irresponsible consumption of alcohol, particularly amongst young adults, requires the sustained cooperation of the industry and government along with the owners of licensed venues. There are also prerequisites for reducing alcohol abuse: responsible marketing and selling by the business sector, a comprehensive and sustained education programme, and the full and fair enforcement of existing laws and regulations by the responsible authorities.
The five members of the group believe that as a legitimate stakeholder, they have an important role to play in reducing alcohol abuse and harm, a view shared by the World Health Organisation. They hope that this action will demonstrate their commitment to change and result in more dialogue and cooperation between the industry and the government to reduce alcohol abuse.
For more information please contact
Stephanie / Pornravee at Hill & Knowlton Thailand
Tel. 0-2627-3501 ext 102, 110
Fax. 0-2627-3510
e-mail: [email protected] / [email protected]