Alcohol Advertising Ban Will Impact Jobs and Investment

GMB warns “well intentioned” alcohol advertising ban will impact jobs and investment

The biggest trade union in Scotland’s drinks manufacturing sector has today (Thursday 9 March) warned the Scottish Government it must ditch plans to restrict alcohol marketing and instead bring forward a national strategy for the future of jobs and investment with workers and employers.

The call comes from the GMB union, which represents thousands of workers in brewing, whisky, and spirits across Scotland, as the government’s Alcohol Advertising and Promotion consultation closes amid workforce concerns about the unintended consequences of reduced sales on existing employment levels across the sector.

GMB Scotland Organiser David Hume warned:

“While the consultation is well intentioned, an alcohol advertising ban will inevitably be detrimental to jobs across the sector and its supply chains.

“And in a cost-of-living crisis, workers in the real-world shouldn’t pay the price for the unintended consequences of decisions taken within the Holyrood bubble. 

“Let’s be clear, the sector is a fundamental pillar of our economy and the jewel in the crown of our highly valuable food and drink sector – we cannot do without it.

“That’s why GMB is urging Ministers to scrap their proposals and work with employers and unions to bring forward a National Strategy to support the sector rather than restrict it.”

ENDS

Contact: GMB Scotland Organiser David Hume on 07931 796733 or email gmbscotcampaigns@gmb.org.uk