Alcohol

Helpful information on the advertising rules for Alcohol ads, and examples of previous Advertising Standards Authority rulings in this area.

Alcohol advertising is often a sensitive topic. Societal concerns about alcohol, in particular problems such as binge and underage drinking, mean that it is rarely out of the headlines. With these issues high on the political agenda close scrutiny has been given to those factors that may influence the amount of alcohol we consume, and in response, the UK advertising rules for alcohol are amongst the strictest in the world.

The rules which apply to ads across all media place a particular emphasis on protecting young people. Alcohol ads must not be directed at people under 18 or contain anything that is likely to appeal to them by reflecting youth culture. Any individuals that feature in alcohol ads must be 25 years of age or over, and look it. There are also strict controls around the placement of alcohol ads and they are currently banned from appearing in and around programmes targeted at audiences below the age of 18 and programmes likely to appeal particularly to this age group.

The more general rules in place to protect consumers of all ages include: not linking the consumption of alcohol to increased popularity, sexual success, confidence, sporting achievements or mental performance; not portraying drinking alcohol as a challenge or with tough or daring behaviour; not encouraging people to adopt an unwise style of drinking such as binge drinking or showing it being served irresponsibly; not suggesting alcohol has therapeutic qualities or can help you overcome your problems.

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Latest rulings

Heineken UK Ltd
- Not upheld
- Television, Social media (own site)
- 20 July 2022
A tweet and a television ad for an alcoholic beverage did not irresponsibly promote alcohol or contain content that would strongly appeal to under-18s.
DNBA Entertainment Ltd
- Upheld
- Social media (paid ad)
- 13 July 2022
An Instagram post encouraged unsafe and irresponsible behaviour by linking alcohol with driving.
Pure Wines Ltd
- Upheld
- Social media (paid ad)
- 13 July 2022
An ad on Instagram and the company’s website broke the strict alcohol ad rules by linking alcohol with seduction and sexual activity.
Served Drinks Ltd t/a Served
- Upheld in part
- Social media (paid ad)
- 06 July 2022
Three ads on Facebook and Instagram were banned for making health and nutrition claims about an alcoholic product, and for implying alcohol can overcome boredom.

View all rulings

Alcohol

Helpful information on the advertising rules for Alcohol ads, and examples of previous Advertising Standards Authority rulings in this area.

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Latest rulings

Heineken UK Ltd

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Alcohol: Promotional marketing

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Relevant codes

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19 Alcohol