Warning over dangers of ‘bottomless brunches’
Bars and restaurants across Northern Ireland have been warned over the dangers of “bottomless brunch” promotions by a group which oversees the responsible promotion and sales of alcohol in Northern Ireland.
Responsible Promotion and Retail of Alcohol NI, an industry-backed body, says its independent complaints panel has received nine complaints over bottomless brunch promotions in Northern Ireland.
Chairman Duncan McCausland said: “Whilst the Code recognises that these types of promotions are a novel way of providing customers with a ‘value’ offer, it is extremely important that venues and business owners do not encourage the consumption of an irresponsible amount of alcohol, or buoy people to drink more than they would have otherwise intended.
“The term ‘bottomless’ cannot actually mean unlimited drinks and therefore, ‘bottomless’ promotions must include terms and conditions which clearly stipulate the limitations of the offer and the responsible service measures in place”.
The group has listed a number of sample terms and conditions which ‘bottomless type promotions’ should include:
- “Bottomless” does not mean an unlimited supply of alcoholic drinks.
- We reserve the right to refuse service to customers who in our opinion appear to be intoxicated.
- Drinks included in the offer must be served with food. Customers cannot use the promotion for drinking purposes only.
- During the promotion, drinks will only be served in standard measures.
- All drinks included in the offer are served by table service only, or with alternative management controls that ensure responsible consumption.
- Customers are only allowed to have one drink at a time under the promotion. A customer will not be served until he/she has finished the drink they have.
- Post promotion drinks are sold at the prevailing price.
