BBPA 'needs more focus'
A more united and focused approach to government lobbying is vital to ensure the trade infiltrates Westminster's corridors of power.
This is the view of industry leaders, following the shock resignation of British Beer & Pub Association chief executive Rob Hayward.
The association plans a major shake up in the way it operates amid criticism it has failed to effectively lobby Government ministers.
The trade lobby itself has been accused of being too fragmented, with too many groups representing different sectors of the industry.
The lack of a national body representing the interests of pub tenants and lessees was singled out as a cause for major concern.
Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers chief executive Nick Bish summed up the feelings of many when he said: "People have to decide where their interests lie. It is just not possible to represent producers, retailers, landlords, lessees and wholesalers. We have to clarify our objectives and talk to each other more honestly."
Paul Smith, director of late-night club and bar association Noctis, said the industry simply had too many voices. "We have to be more focused and learn to campaign on key issues, which is obviously easier if you are a single-issue group."
Keith Bott, past chairman of the Society of Independent Brewers, said: "The BBPA is distracted by representing the interests of both pubcos and brewers. Siba is able to concentrate on one mission to ensure independent brewers speak with one voice."
Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations chief executive Tony Payne said: "We already work with the BBPA on a number of initiatives. Such a liaison would not have been possible 25 years ago when the old Brewers' Society was in existence, but splitting the BBPA would be a backward step."
Payne said forming a national licensees' body had not been possible following the demise of the National Licensed Victuallers Association in 1992. "Some licensee groups are reluctant to pay the membership fee that professional representation demands," he revealed.
Trade consultant Phil Dixon said current campaigning philosophy was too complex. "If 22 alcohol charities can unite to form a single campaigning group then why cannot our trade bodies do likewise?" he asked.
All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group chairman John Grogan MP said getting the industry to talk with one voice was a tall order.
"Having different perspectives is not the problem, although it is crucial the industry does not fall out in public. It's arguable that sometimes the alcohol industry attempts to create too broad a coalition," he said.
Pubs action group Fair Pint accused the BBPA of
failing to represent the pub sector properly.
"They are in disarray because the charade that they are speaking on behalf of the whole sector has been exposed. The BBPA represents the big brewers and the big property companies who own tied pubs. They do not represent those who actually run pubs," said spokesman Steve Corbett.
Read Thompson's view here
