AVA criticises energy drink ban

The AVA: The Vending and Automated Retail Association has criticised the government’s proposal to implement a blanket ban on the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks from vending machines. The industry body has warned of a projected £32m annual loss for the UK vending industry’s soft drinks market. 

While the AVA supports the government’s aim to protect young people from the perceived dangers of high-caffeine drinks, it says that the 13% of the £248m UK vending soft drinks sector that would be impacted by the ban would be huge for the UK economy. It argues that the new restrictions would impact not only machines in public spaces but also those in spaces accessible only to adults, which make up over 80% of the total.

‘Incredibly disappointing’
David Llewellyn, chief executive of the AVA, said: “The AVA and its members have always taken the health and welfare of young people seriously, which is why the voluntary restrictions on energy drink sales in public-facing machines have been successful. It is incredibly disappointing that, despite our discussions and clear evidence of industry responsibility, the government has chosen a route that penalises businesses and adult consumers alike.

“Banning all energy drinks in all vending machines, including those in workplaces, will cost our industry tens of millions of pounds, threaten jobs and reduce consumer choice, without addressing the real issue. We urge the government to reconsider this blanket approach and work with the industry on sensible, targeted measures.”

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