Chicago Launches Responsible Retailer Initiative
Published: February 22, 2013
The Responsible Retailer Initiative has created a guide that is intended to reduce a unique and growing set of problems arising out of the operation of businesses engaged in the sale of alcoholic beverages on Chicago’s south and west sides.
"We are asking liquor establishments to do what is right in their communities, to be responsible retailers, to become more involved in the communities they serve, to improve the area and quality in and around their stores.", said Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
The City of Chicago regulates the retail sale of alcohol. Wholesalers and manufacturers of alcohol in Illinois are regulated by the State Liquor Control Commission. However, the Responsible Retailer Initiative has created a guide that asks retailers to take the initiative to "Be a Good Neighbor," and demonstrate their willingness to work with their community.
Mayor Emanuel added, "I want to thank the Aldermen who have worked with local liquor retailers and distributors to develop this initiative and provide a guide to help liquor retailers support community improvement to ensure public health and safety."
The retailers will also receive a periodic "grade" on aesthetics and community involvement. In addition, retail members of the Initiative are helping fund the Urban Initiative Plan (UIP) to support local events and cause-related projects like the Violence Stops Here contest and other productions showcasing creative expression of youth from these communities.
The Responsible Retailer Initiative guidebook was crafted by urban cause marketing firm XtraMedium Communications Group. XtraMedium moderated discussions between the lead Aldermen, City Hall and Chicago Beverage Systems over several months to help develop the tenets of the plan.
The official press release can be viewed at
http://tinyurl.com/ambxu2g
The RRI Guidebook can be downloaded at http://xtra-medium.com/campaigns/RRI/RRI_Booklet_v2.pdf