I have no problem with the mention of Patron and Hennessy in the songs of musicians around the world. I have no issue with Dublin Football captain Bryan Cullen announcing that he will see everyone in Coppers tonight after a fantastic All-Ireland final victory. I do, however, have concerns with Calum Best announcing that he will be opening a George Best themed pub in Dublin's city centre. For a man who so sadly joined the whole world in watching his fathers career demise and who subsequently died at the age of 59 having publicly and privately battled alcoholism, I ask the question; why endorse this?
I agree that the memory of George Best and his achievements should live on for years, and his son should undoubtedly be proud of his father but why not a cafe, a shop or a museum?
Calum's endorsement has reportedly upset members of Best's family, including his sister Barbara who set up the George Best foundation to help people struggling with alcohol abuse. The areas of alcohol sponsorship and celebrity endorsement of alcohol brands are being discussed more and more in media and marketing. Many query whether both encourage under age drinking and over consumption.
People should consume alcohol responsibly and enjoy the products on offer. But the business men and women who run the industry and develop the marketing strategies to promote their brands and establishments must be more conscious of who is seeing their message and what those messages are. I look forward to the opening of Bestie's bar and Calum's endorsement provided the focus is on responsible drinking. I think with hindsight that is what George would want too. Article references can be found at; http://goo.gl/RzemJ
