In 2012, the Independent Complaints Panel ruled against a beer pump clip featuring the notorious Kray Twins due to its association with violence and aggression.
Read the decision and more here: portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
Inadvertent mistake by a marketing agency is an important lesson. In 2011, a sponsored Spotify playlist included a song referencing excessive drinking -breaching the Code. It's important that robust checks are made at all stages of the marketing process.
portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
In 2010, a complaint about test-tube drinks raised questions about rapid consumption and claims that a drink could enhance performance. The case helped shape how the Code is applied to innovative packaging and product descriptions.
Read the story: portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
In our look back at 30 decisions over 30 years, we bring you a timely reminder that seasonal promotions are captured under the Code & must still be compliant - this WKD Cocktail Cauldron tells a spooky, cautionary tale.
🎃portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
A complaint against a promotional activity by 99 Liqueur Shots, featuring an ice-cream van has been upheld by the alcohol industry's Independent Complaints Panel.
portmangroup.org.uk/complain…
What happens when alcohol marketing blurs the line between drinking & drugs? In 2009, a complaint about BrewDog’s Speedball highlighted why responsible marketing matters, the complaint was upheld & the product was renamed, read more in our blog series:
portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
In 2008, a WKD website was at the centre of a Portman Group decision on alcohol marketing and social success. As part of our #30Years30Decisions series, discover how the Independent Complaints Panel ruled on consumer photos and brand association.
🔗 portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
It was great to celebrate 30 years of the Portman Group Code of Practice in the House of Commons last night, highlighting continuing effective self-regulation for alcohol marketing in the UK.
With cross party support from MPs and representatives of the trade associations.
@JacobCollierMP @TrisOsborneMP @JoePJRobertson @wendychambLD @beerandpub @ScotchWhiskySWA @SIBANational @NACMCiderMakers @Drinkaware
An early instance of using sex to sell goods was in 1871, since then the adage 'sex sells' has been used to justify risqué promotions. When it comes to alcohol there should be no association with sexual activity. Read more on how to avoid the pitfalls.
portmangroup.org.uk/understa…
Code breaches are usually inadvertent or due to a cumulative impact of elements rather than one sole element. However, every now and then, a case comes along which represents a clear-cut breach of the Code. Rubbel Sexy Lager in 2007 was one such case.
portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
A complaint against BeatBox products has been upheld by the alcohol industry's Independent Complaints Panel.
If you want to ensure your products are likely to comply with our Code of Practice get in touch with our free & fast Advisory Service.
portmangroup.org.uk/complain…
Alcoholic gift packs can raise issues. In 2006, a complaint about a gift pack containing alcohol & a teddy bear was upheld after being given to a 9 year old. Under the Code, the term 'packaging' includes secondary packaging & items enclosed within it.
portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
Katie and Laura are at the Trade Drinks Expo today and tomorrow, come and say hello and learn more about what we do here at the Portman Group. Find us at booth TD321.
Portman Group retweeted
Met with @PortmanGroup at #LabourConference today
Great to understand their role in challenging the alcohol industry to market responsibility and regulate irresponsible advertising.
This encourages moderate drinking habits and a balanced understanding of alcohol harm. Thank you for meeting me to discuss this important issue impacting on the health of constituents.
Portman Group retweeted
As the government shortly intends to consult on alcohol labelling to ‘build on’ existing voluntary commitments, @PortmanGroup writes labelling must reflect the effectiveness of existing widespread voluntary industry standards.
Partner Content
30 years of the Code: in 2005, ‘Rocket Fuel’ was considered under rules preventing alcohol strength or intoxicating effects from becoming a dominant theme.
It shows the value of our free Advisory Service in helping producers address potential issues early.
portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
Pregnancy comes with a million choices, alcohol-free pregnancy is the safest one. #JustOneChoice campaign takes that message to venues, shelves & feeds where the conversation hasn’t been happening. We're proud to support @NationalFASD
Find out more at: nationalfasd.org.uk/welcomet…
Back in 2003, this product’s sperm-shaped packaging & the claim ‘Keep ‘em coming’ inextricably linked the product with sexual activity, it was, unsurprisingly, found in breach of the Code. Read more in our series looking back at 30 years of the Code.
portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…
The 2000s saw rulings against products playing on allusions to drugs. Crack Ice was one, with the Panel finding “crack”, “buzz” & “illicit”, suggested an association with crack cocaine. Read about 30 key decisions from 30 years of the Code of Practice.
portmangroup.org.uk/30-years…






