Popularity of "Breezers" in sharp decline

In the Netherlands the so-called "Breezers" or alcopops are often seen as a major problem when it comes to underage drinking. This type of alcoholic lemonade and its leading brand Bacardi Breezer became a symbol of irresponsible use of alcohol by young consumers. The most recent sales figures of have cast some doubt over this theory though. At the height of their popularity rough 30,000 liters of this product were sold and according to an article on www.nu.nl, the latest forecast by the trade organisation is that in 2007 sales will total just 8,000 liters.

Despite the decline in sales, underage drinking has not become less of a problem. Critics of alcoholic drinks point out though that other types of sweet alcoholic drinks are compensating the loss in sales of "Breezers" to some extend.

Was Bacardi treated unfairly in this case? Is there similar resistance to this type of product in other countries?