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

Banquist Ltd t/a Winedrops
- Upheld
- Social media (paid ad), Email
- 05 November 2025
Two emails and a paid-for Instagram ad for an online wine retailer made misleading and unsubstantiated claims about the origin of their wine. They also failed to make clear the basis of the price comparisons and the significant conditions of the promotion.
Au Vodka Ltd
- Upheld
- Social media (paid ad), Social media (influencer or affiliate ad)
- 24 September 2025
A TikTok post by influencer Lucinda Strafford, a paid-for Facebook post featuring influencer Kai Cenat and another paid-for Facebook post advertising AU Vodka were inappropriately targeted, directed at under-18s and featured people who were, or appeared to be, under-25.
Voodoo Doll Ltd t/a MOJO Manchester
- Upheld
- Social media (paid ad)
- 24 September 2025
A paid-for Meta ad for a bar, which referenced alcoholic drinks, was irresponsible by being likely to have particular appeal to under-18s and by encouraging excessive drinking.
Heineken UK Ltd
- Upheld
- Social media (influencer or affiliate ad)
- 10 September 2025
An Instagram post by the comedian Al Nash advertising Strongbow, implied that alcohol was indispensable and took priority in life.

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

Banquist Ltd t/a Winedrops

Au Vodka Ltd

Voodoo Doll Ltd t/a MOJO Manchester

Heineken UK Ltd

Help getting it right

Popular advice

Alcohol: General

Alcohol: Promotional marketing

Alcohol: Targeting and Appeal to Under 18s

Relevant codes

19 Alcohol

18 Alcohol