Pubs trial unit awareness posters

Pubs are trialling new posters to help consumers know how many units of alcohol are in their drink.

The pilot scheme, being run by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), forms part of the Responsibility Deal between the Government and retailers.

The trial includes posters, tent cards and beer mats featuring the slogan "how many units in your drink" with pictures of drinks labelled with the units they contain.

If the trial is successful, the materials will be rolled out to pubs across the country. Alcohol education charity Drinkaware helped with the design of the campaign materials.

"This is another example of the Responsibility Deal giving people the information to make their own choices about their health and lifestyle," said Andrew Lansley, Secretary of State for Health.

"Everyone should drink responsibly and within the recommended alcohol limits. Women should not regularly drink more than 2-3 units a day; and men should not regularly drink more than 3-4 units a day.

"I look forward to seeing the evaluation of this summer's pilot and to a successful national roll-out to consumers across the country."

Key component​

BBPA chief executive, Brigid Simmonds, said: "This campaign will be a key component in the Public Health Responsibility Deal, to help pub customers to be more aware of their units. 

"The start of this pilot also shows that the partnership approach is the best way to deliver results.

"This is one part of a far wider process, as BBPA members have themselves signed up to a range of commitments which amount to big changes in their businesses.

"We all recognise we need to play our part in promoting awareness amongst consumers and encouraging responsible drinking."

Drinkaware chief executive Chris Sorek, added: "Today's announcement is an important step in educating consumers about alcohol units and how they translate into their favourite drinks.

"We welcome the BBPA's and its members' commitment to deliver this consumer-friendly guide and look forward to seeing the campaign rolled out across the UK."