title: A pilot study investigating of the nature of point-of-sale alcohol promotions in bottle shops in a large Australian regional city.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The promotion of alcohol by retailers and media can contribute to a culture of excessive alcohol consumption, but the effect of non-advertising alcohol promotions has largely been neglected. This study sought to gather initial data on this important area.
  
  
  METHODS
  An observational study of alcohol point-of-sale promotions in the Wollongong CBD area, conducted in July-August 2005.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We identified 17 different promotions in three categories: gift with purchase; competitions; and buy some, get some free.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Given previous research demonstrating the relationship between increased alcohol consumption and both ownership of alcohol-related merchandise and reduced per unit price, it appears that point-of-sale promotions may have the potential to further increase alcohol consumption among young people.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Only when the extent and impact of such promotions is demonstrated will we be in a position to effectively advocate for appropriate regulations to ensure young people are not exposed to marketing strategies that further increase their exposure to alcohol-related harms.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Health Initiatives, University of Wollongong, New South Wales. sandraj@uow.edu.au
authors.forename: Sandra C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Jones
authors.forename: Melissa
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lynch
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000428:Alcohol Drinking; D002648:Child; D003132:Commerce / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D040541:Marketing / Q000379:methods*; D009517:New South Wales; D010865:Pilot Projects