This week, from the 1st to the 7th of July, is Alcohol Awareness week- and charities such as Alcohol Change UK, Drinkaware and The Alcohol Health Alliance are all here should you or somebody you know be struggling with alcohol.
Should it be somebody in the retail industry, GroceryAid has many assets, confidential help and alternative assistance for you to get a hold of here.
Alcohol awareness is important, as it plays a crucial part in convenience. Alcohol itself can be detrimental if not consumed in moderation, and it helps to know the signs of alcohol misuse so you know what to look out for- both in employees and customers.
Due to alcohol being a powerful chemical, it can have a wide range of unfavourable effects on almost every part of your body- including your brain, bones and heart. The risks can have both short term and long term effects, but dependent drinkers with a higher tolerance can often drink much more without experiencing any noticeable effects.
Short term effects can include but are not limited to a sped-up heart rate, affected brain/nervous system, slower reaction times and highly impaired co-ordination- not to mention the other risks associated with alcohol misuse, such as accidents/injury, violent/antisocial behaviour, loss of personal possessions and unplanned time off work or college.
The long term effects are similar, if not worse. Drinking large amounts of alcohol for many years may cause organ damage to the brain, nervous system, heart, liver and pancreas.
Heavy drinking can increase your blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels, both major risk factors for heart attacks and strokes.
Excessive alcohol use doesn’t just affect people on the margins of society, but also those in well-paid professions and careers. Alcohol addiction does not stigmatise and it can affect anyone regardless of their social background, wealth or ethnicity.
Some tips for trying to reduce the amount of alcohol you drink include:
- Know your limits – make sure you know how many units are in your favourite drinks.
- Check out the alcohol content ABV% of a drink and if possible, choose an alternative with a lower alcoholic content.
- Have something to eat before you start drinking.
- Alternate each alcoholic drink with a non-alcoholic drink.
- Avoid drinking in rounds or having a kitty as it may lead to drinking more than you intended.
- Keep track of your drinks and do not let anyone top up your drink until it is finished.
Being surrounded by bottles and cans, both as a retailer and consumer, can be quite daunting if you’ve had past experiences or current struggles. According to a 2022 graph by Statista, alcohol makes up the second biggest sale in convenience stores at 15.9%- only 5% lower than tobacco and vape sales.
Alcohol Awareness Week sheds light on the impact of alcohol consumption and raises awareness about responsible drinking practices.
For convenience retailers, this week serves as an opportunity to educate both customers and staff about the importance of responsible alcohol sales.
It starts from the source. During Alcohol Awareness Week, retailers can take proactive steps to ensure compliance with alcohol sales regulations, such as checking IDs, monitoring alcohol sales, and promoting responsible drinking messages in-store.
Enabling staff to have the knowledge/experience of constant ID checks not only improves customer service but also minimises the risk of alcohol-related incidents in-store, creating a safer environment for both customers and employees alike- as according to ACS’ 2024 Crime Report, one of the top three triggers for abuse in store stems from intoxicated customers.
In summary, Alcohol Awareness Week allows convenience retailers to engage with their community, promote responsible drinking practices, and enhance their overall reputation as socially responsible businesses.
Retailers can play a vital role in shaping a safer and healthier drinking culture within their local area.
If you are concerned about your alcohol intake or that of a friend, colleague or family member, here’s where to get help…
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