Ultimate withdraw "drink like a fish" promo

Newcastle-based nightclubs firm Ultimate Leisure has withdrawn a promotion flagged up as "drink like a fish" from its new Glasgow venue Sea and Crystal Lounge following high profile complaints.

But the company, which had been offering ten pint goldfish bowl-type containers of cocktail mixes for as low as £20, claims there was nothing irresponsible about its offer - which also saw mixes including Champagne sold at £80.

The city licensing board was alerted to the promotion because it appeared to flout Glasgow's strict policy effectively banning offers which induce people to drink alcohol.

Deals including two-for-ones and collector card schemes are out of bounds if a venue aims to use extended hours - which includes all nightclubs. Slogans appearing to urge people to drink, as in "drink like a fish" are also forbidden.

However there is no attempt to control price, because the board considers competition law rules out minimum pricing.

City licensing board convenor James McInally said licensees were expected to observe the spirit of the policy as well as its letter.

Drinks watchdog group Alcohol Focus Scotland's chief executive Jack Law told thepublican.com the promotion had been "completely irresponsible".

"Price offer or promotions such as these undermine the work being done to change the Scottish culture of drinking to intoxication to one of responsible drinking," he said.

Ultimate's spokeswoman said: "As an introductory offer a fish bowl glass cocktail was made available for the first three weeks of opening.

"As many people are aware the Glasgow pub, bar and club market is fiercely competitive and our general pricing is in line with our competitors.

"We are of course aware of the Glasgow board's (promotions) policy and we believe we fully comply with it."