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 Some people ask me why a drinks company would put so much effort behind responsible drinking initiatives. For me, the case is both rational and emotional. Rationally, there is an irrefutable business case for us to promote responsible drinking. Consumers are at the heart of everything we do as a company. That is the basis for our success. We want consumers to enjoy our brands and we care that they do. If they drink to excess then they won't do so. It's as simple as that. If their behaviour alienates others, it is not in our interest. But what is even more important for most of us is the emotional level. Everyone in Diageo is proud of what we do. We are proud of the business we're in and the great brands we sell. And we are proud to work for a company that acts with integrity.
Paul Walsh, CEO Diageo plc
Speaking at the ippr Responsible Drinking Seminar, hosted by Diageo Great Britain (May 2004)
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About Diageo
Diageo is the world's leading premium drinks business. With its global vision, and local marketing focus, Diageo brings to consumers an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across the spirits, wine and beer categories including Smirnoff, Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Baileys, J&B, Jose Cuervo, Captain Morgan, Tanqueray and Crown Royal, and Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines.
Diageo takes its leadership position seriously, particularly in relation to responsible drinking and has made a longstanding commitment to effective self regulation and setting world class standards, in the responsible marketing of its brands.
Diageo Great Britain believes a partnership approach involving the Government, the drinks industry, employees, trade bodies, NGOs, media and other stakeholders is crucial in the promotion of responsible drinking.
Diageo trades in some 180 markets around the world and is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands and performance, visit www.diageo.com.
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Millions of people drink alcohol responsibly every day. No-one wants to stop that pleasure. But there is a growing problem on our town and city centre streets on Friday and Saturday nights. There are a lot of excellent partnership schemes up and down the country to tackle irresponsible drinking. I know the industry is working hard on codes of practice to ensure that we avoid advertising and manufacturing that glamorises binge drinking and attracts under age drinkers... I want to give the industry a chance to build on the good work that I know is already out there and to prove that it is committed to tackling the problems of binge drinking.