Sponsored events pique the indignation of teetotallers
Described: 16 Apr 2025 at 05: 45
According to StopDrink Network, an NGO-run drinking see organization, illegal sales of alcohol to minor buyers and improper campaign of liquor were both evident during the Songkran holidays.
According to Teera Watcharapranee, chairman of StopDrink Network, big adult businesses in Thailand held several special occasions, including concerts and sales booths, at 137 or more locations nationwide.
Of the 137 areas, 42 were designated as water-fighting areas on the street or the seaside, 60 were venues for entertainment, and the other locations were department stores and music venues. He claimed that these activities were in contravention of the tax and liquor control laws.
For example, a package of four beverage cans was offered for 199 baht during a promotion. Even during the 2-5pm liquor sales ban time, he claimed, the cocktails were sold to all comers, including children and strongly drunken people.
He claimed that some well-known convenience store chains have set up sale stalls outside their locations in an effort to avoid being caught breaking the law while operating in the area. He stated that StopDrink Network will give state agencies its evidence.
He claimed that celebrating the Thai New Year festival without alcohol could be both popular and entertaining. According to Mr. Teera, alcohol-free Songkran celebrations at some department stores in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Nakhon Ratchasima drew just as many people as other events sponsored by breweries, Mr. Teera claimed.
He added that Songkran’s alcohol brands had the biggest impact on the country and would continue to do so as local “wan lai” celebrations continue in some places.
According to Mr. Teera, the government needs to impose strict controls over the marketing strategies of these brands to make sure they are socially responsible.