New junk food ad exemption welcomed by small firms

Press Releases 24 Jun 2021

Response to the new advertising rules on junk food

Response to the new advertising rules from the Department for Health to tackle childhood obesity.

Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chair Mike Cherry said: “We’re pleased to see that, after much campaigning, the government has embraced our recommendations and exempted the smallest business from this junk food ad ban.

“Just at the time when we need small businesses to bounce back from the pandemic and attract customers to our high streets, the last thing they needed was a plan to ban them from promoting what they do. 

"Today’s exemption avoids the absurd impact of having a chocolatier unable to post photographs on Instagram or Facebook; a fish and chip shop or bakery stopped from emailing its customers about its new range; or an ice cream store near the beach from being part of its local tourism guide or business directory.

"So we welcome this common sense move from the Government, which will enable hundreds of thousands of small firms to get back on their feet faster.

“FSB supports efforts to tackle our obesity crisis, and we will continue to do so, provided these efforts don’t damage the small food retailers and producers that are at the heart of our local communities, and in urgent need of our support this summer.

“Now more than ever, small firms are relying on online adverts and social media to share and promote their products and services. As they continue to struggle due to the pandemic, a ban on perceived ‘junk’ food advertising would have been devastating for many.”