Coles Liquor has partnered with DrinkWise to introduce new signage offering customers access to support services if they need help managing their alcohol consumption or behaviour.
Customers at any one of the 960 national Liquorland, First Choice Liquor Market and Vintage Cellars stores can scan a QR code or tap their mobile device, which takes them to the DrinkWise website that features a range of support services, including:
- National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline
- Lifeline
- Beyond Blue
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- 1800RESPECT
- Men’s Referral Service
- 13YARN
The roll out follows extensive trials which took place at several stores in Queensland, NSW, South Australia and Western Australia, where the signage received a positive response from customers and Coles Liquor team members.
Coles Liquor General Manager Operations Steve Hugginson says the initiative speaks to the retailer’s continued efforts to help customers purchase and consume alcohol in a safe way.
“Serving customers safely and responsibly is a key priority for our business so we’re proud to be able to introduce the new DrinkWise signage in all our stores across the country,” he says.
“The signs use innovative technology that make accessing support quick, easy and discrete, and links to really valuable services for those who need help managing their relationship with alcohol.”
DrinkWise CEO Simon Strahan says the signage ensures those struggling with alcohol consumption are aware of how to access support.
“This is an important initiative to remind customers who are choosing to purchase and drink alcohol that if they or someone they know, is having trouble managing their consumption, asking for help is okay and there are support services available,” he says.
“While the majority of Australians are choosing to drink responsibly, there are still some who are drinking at risky levels, engaging in anti-social behaviour or turning to alcohol as a coping strategy. That’s why we’re increasing our efforts, through partnerships like this one with Coles Liquor, to ensure Australians can easily access support.”