Alcohol promotion in New World supermarket

September 15th, 2010
Margaret Giroux

Given the amount of public concern being expressed recently about addressing the social problems caused by excessive use of alcohol in the community, I am very surprised and disappointed that New World continues to place liquor sales so prominently in its supermarket here in Motueka.

Some of the recommendations in the reform group's report to the government related to making liquor sales from supermarkets either banned or at less prominent. Yet in New World the liquor section is so prominent that it is impossible to miss. Literally so, because it is not possible to buy anything from the otherwise excellent store unless you pass through one of the two liquor aisles.

Children, teens and adults (and people trying to beat alcoholism or cut down) must pass through the section before they get to anything else, What's more, sometimes there's someone there behind a little booth trying to get us to sample promoted products.

This is not good enough. This community-spirited, locally owned shop should go one step further and move the liquor section to a less prominent area in its layout.

Comment by (Name supplied but withheld):
[Posted 23 September 2010]

A view expressed from a once alcoholic one could say that the location of alcohol at New World Motueka is a test of willpower when it comes to purchacing products from there. Even worse is being confronted by a merchandiser greeting you at the door with free samples.

I think a little more thought should go into the location of the department. Pak and Save, Countdown and Fresh Choice have you wander through the meat and veg before you even get to the drinks department. It is obvious that the owners of these stores have your wellbeing at heart.

Comment by Rose:
[Posted 7 October 2010]

The owners of New World need to look at other Supermarkets and reconfigure the Motueka shop - far better to have fruit and veg and "specials" near the entrance and liquor well away - good to see some have liquor in a separate alcove that shoppers dont need to go near.

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