Reforms to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act have been welcomed by Hospitality NZ, although it called for more to be done.
Hospitality New Zealand has acknowledged the Government’s targeted reforms to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, stating that they go some way towards improving fairness in the licensing process, but urged that more needed to be done to address the ongoing uncertainty for operators.
Nick Keene, Hospitality NZ’s Acting Chief Executive, said the reforms are a positive step, particularly in ensuring any objections to a licence are locally based, rather than allowing for objections from anywhere, and that applicants have the right to respond to objections.
“These changes recognise that responsible hospitality businesses should not be unfairly burdened by inefficient or unclear processes. Making licensing fairer and more workable is essential for the viability of our industry,” said Keene.
However, many members remain concerned about the way licence applications and renewals are handled by local licensing agencies and District Licensing Committees.
“While it’s good to see progress, operators still face too much uncertainty when renewing their licences, even when they have a strong track record of compliance. Consistency in the licensing process across New Zealand is an area that needs further attention to provide real confidence for business owners,” added Keene.
“We are pleased to see amendments included to allow zero percent alcohol options to satisfy low-alcohol drink provisions in the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act. This is something we have long advocated for, especially as customer preference has moved away from mid-strength beers to zero-alcohol alternatives, but venues have been required to continue to carry low alcohol options to satisfy their licensing requirements.
Keene said this was a great example of a small change that can improve a hospitality operator’s bottom line, and Hospitality New Zealand was pleased to see this common-sense amendment included.”
Hospitality New Zealand will continue working with the Government to ensure the law supports both community wellbeing and a strong, responsible hospitality sector.
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