Stop openly displaying alcohol for sale in supermarkets

Today, many supermarkets have liquor counters right next to vegetables, bread, and children’s products. The main problem is that they don’t provide black bags to hide the bottles.

After purchasing, the customer has to hold the bottles in their hands, pass all the other counters, and walk out of the checkout area. Public display of alcohol in front of children, families, and the elderly ‘unintentionally’ promotes alcohol. This is against the purpose of the law restricting alcohol advertising.

My suggestions:

1. A liquor section with a separate entrance;  a way to enter directly from the street, buy, and exit without going through the supermarket, as in many countries.

2. Make black bags mandatory -- In Middle Eastern countries, liquor shops don’t even have name boards. They are only allowed to carry purchased bottles in a black bag and keep them secret. We should make the same system mandatory here too.

3. Separate location -- If there is no separate entrance, at least move the food and children’s items to a corner away from them.

4. Age restriction notices - Post clear notices stating “Entry prohibited for persons under the age of 21.”

A supermarket is for everyday needs. Buying alcohol should not be made a public display. The relevant authorities should take immediate action in this regard.

Sumith de Silva

Rajagiriya