 Drinks are more expensive in outlets that don't display prices |
UK pubs and bars have been ordered to display the prices of their soft drinks. The Department of Trade and Industry decision (DTI) follows a flood of complaints from consumers who felt that they had been duped into buying expensive soft drinks.
In future, consumers will be able to see how much a soft drink costs before they order it.
According to the DTI pubs and bars that display soft drink prices charge less on average than outlets that do not.
Restaurants will also have to show prices with their menu at or near the entrance so people will know what their bill will look like before they go inside.
The new laws will come into effect March 2004 and follow consultation with the drinks industry.
"This will mean there are no nasty surprises when people buy a soft drink in a pub or restaurant," Consumer Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said.
"People are entitled to know how much they are paying before they order. That's not too much to ask."
Tourists may raise a glass in celebration at the news that all UK outlets that accept payment in foreign currencies will have to display any additional costs, for example commission and handling charges.
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