Advertisement
Dublin: 4 °C Friday 29 March, 2024

The Big Issue – now sponsored by Fairhills wine

Recovering alcoholics fear backlash over magazine’s new sponsor

THE BIG ISSUE magazine in the UK has issued its vendors with vests bearing an ad for its new sponsor, wine label Fairhills. But recovering alcholics who sell the magazine feel the sponsorship choice is a bit inappropriate.

The fair trade wine company signed a deal worth £60,000 with the magazine. The magazine’s chief executive said that the company had considered issues surrounding sponsorship by Fairhills but said his concerns were overcome because the company’s ideals echo the magazine’s. Fairhills works with disadvantaged groups in South Africa

Vendors who are recovering alcoholics feel it’s not right for them to wear signs advertising alcohol. The magazine is sold in the UK for £1.70 by registered vendors who are allowed to keep the profits they earn by selling copies in their area.