The operation, aimed at protecting young people and promoting the responsible sale of alcohol, tested fourteen businesses within the district. Of these, eleven successfully refused to serve or sell alcohol to the underage volunteers, demonstrating robust age verification policies.
However, three premises failed the test purchase exercise by selling age-restricted products to the volunteers. These businesses will now face appropriate enforcement action.
Test purchase operations are highlighted as a crucial tool for ensuring retailers adhere to legislation concerning the sale of age-restricted products, thereby safeguarding children and young people from potential harm.
Businesses are reminded of the importance of implementing strong age verification policies, such as Challenge 25, ensuring staff receive regular training, and refusing sales when valid identification cannot be presented.
