Aims

To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

For full versions of posted research articles readers are encouraged to email requests for "electronic reprints" (text file, PDF files, FAX copies) to the corresponding or lead author, who is highlighted in the posting.

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Wednesday, December 23, 2009

News Release - Price hikes unlikely to reduce alcohol consumption


The urgent need to tackle Britain’s drink-fuelled violence and health problems has led to calls for a minimum retail price for alcohol. But rather than reduce consumption of alcohol, new research shows that if the price of alcohol was significantly increased in supermarkets, only 21% (just over 1 in 5) of adult British drinkers said they would buy less alcohol and spend the same amount as they do now.

The research is published today in the Wilson Drinks Report, a new research based report on industry trends and changing consumer attitudes relating to the sale and consumption of alcohol in the UK.

Although gaining support, minimum pricing may do little to cut consumption. Over half (52%) of adult drinkers said they would either spend more on the same amount of drink or look for cheaper alternatives, including switching to cheaper brands and drinks. . . . . .

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