6 Jun 2008Everton agree to remove alcohol advertising from children's replica shirts

Football Clubs News | Football Sponsors/ Sponsorship and Media

The name of Thai beer company Chang will be omitted from all Everton junior replica shirts and products in the training range following the club's decision to remove alcohol branding on all kit aimed at children.

The club decided to take action, which will affect the club's new 2008-09 replica kit, after being advised by the Portman Group - a social responsibility lobbying organisation with a focus on alcohol.

"Everton is leading the way by becoming the first English club to remove alcohol branding from all children's replica sports shirts," David Poley, chief executive of the Portman Group, commented.

"No drinks company would deliberately set out to target children, it's an unwanted side-effect of sports sponsorship.

"Hopefully, fans will appreciate why the industry does not want children to be viewed as walking billboards for their drinks."

Meanwhile, Knowsley council has agreed to sell the site of Everton's projected new stadium to project partners Tesco.

Liverpool council recently voiced its objection to Tesco's and Everton's proposal on the grounds that it would attract shoppers away from other areas of the city.

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