The Federation of Wholesale Distributors (FWD) has added its voice to the call for a ban on the sale of alcohol below cost price.

Earlier this month MPs on the Commons Home Affairs Select Committee urged the government to put an end to the practice (C-Store, November 14, 2008).

FWD director general John Murphy welcomed the conclusion, and called for loss-leading promotions on alcohol products to be stopped. Half- price and 'three for two' offers, typical of the multiple trade, were "irresponsible" and led to excessive drinking by consumers, he said.

The FWD proposes a voluntary code of practice for the whole drinks industry.

Topics