Yesterday [24.09.2024] we described how Platforms organized the sale of alcohol by shifting legal responsibility to Suppliers (see here).
We asked Janek Śpiewak for a comment on this situation. Janek is an activist operating in Warsaw. For years, he has been known for his uncompromising attitude towards the reprivatization procedure that deprived thousands of people of a roof over their heads. Now he is involved in the fight against abuses in the advertising and sale of alcohol.
What do you think about the sale of alcohol on Platforms with an immediate delivery service?
In my opinion, the sale of alcohol via the Internet delivered by couriers is illegal. It is in clear contradiction with the Act on Sobriety Education. The sale of alcohol in stores takes place on the condition of determining the age of majority and sobriety of the customer. However, the courier has very limited possibilities to verify these things. At the same time, the courier is a weaker entity than the selling company and at the same time interested in the smooth completion of the entire transaction. This creates a huge area for abuse.
And what do you think, in this context, about the introduction of night prohibition in Warsaw?
Unfortunately, the ban on selling alcohol at night in stores may support the e-commerce of alcohol. I can imagine a situation where companies located outside Warsaw will take care of delivering strong alcohol. The situation requires constant monitoring by the police and the trade inspection.