Retailers heed warning about fake alcohol

Trading standards and environmental health officers across the West Midlands region say that the message to the public and traders about the dangers of buying illicit alcohol is hitting home. 

A survey carried out by the CEnTSA Central England food authorities in 2011 had found that a quarter of licensed premises within the region were selling counterfeit, bootleg or non-duty paid alcohol.  Since the results of this survey were published, all councils in the area had reported an increase in complaints and intelligence being passed to them from members of the public and retailers alike, all concerned about the legitimacy of alcohol they had purchased. 

As a result, the survey was repeated again in 2012 and councils were pleased to note that the number of premises selling suspect alcohol was down from 28% to 16%.  In addition, where illicit alcohol was found at premises, it was in smaller quantities than the previous year. 

In addition to carrying out inspections, officers have been offering advice to retailers on how to avoid unwittingly purchasing illicit alcohol.  An information leaflet has also been produced with practical steps that businesses can take, such as dealing with reputable suppliers, ensuring detailed receipts are obtained, not buying from door-to-door alcohol sellers, and a few simple checks to ensure that bottles are genuine and the appropriate duty has been paid.  A copy of this guidance can be obtained from Shropshire Council’s public protection team, ring 0345 678 9000.

Karen Jones, CEnTSA Champion for Food Standards, said:

“This is the second year that we have targeted the supply of illicit alcohol across the West Midlands and we are encouraged by the downward trend.  However, our results show that some traders are still willing to take the risk.  We will continue to work together to tackle this illegal activity.”

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for public protection, said: 

“Alcohol fraud is a major issue, costing the UK economy up to £1 billion in lost revenue and boosting the profits of organised criminals.  It harms legitimate retailers and brand holders and can pose a serious risk to public health.  Traders found to be selling illicit alcohol are liable to prosecution and could have their licence to sell alcohol revoked or restricted.”

Retailers and members of the public who have been offered suspect alcohol or are concerned about the legitimacy of alcohol they have purchased can report the matter via the Citizens Advice Bureau on 08454 04 05 06.

Further information

CEnTSA is a partnership of 14 local authorities across central England which is committed to ensuring effective partnership working across trading standards.

During the 2012 survey, 383 premises were visited; issues were identified at 62 of them.  Issues ranged from counterfeit product, counterfeit duty paid labels and non-duty paid items.  Infringements were dealt with by individual councils in accordance with local enforcement policy.  Penalties can range from informal warnings to prosecution and review of a premises’ alcohol licence.