Hook Norton Avoids FIFA Penalty

Hook Norton has managed to side-step a FIFA ruling that would have stopped it from selling its new World Cup beer

The Oxfordshire brewer’s Striker ale came to the attention of football’s governing body because of its pumpclip strapline: ‘Brewed to Celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2010’. FIFA has strict rules on beers and other products associating themselves with the World Cup because of the vast amounts paid by official sponsors. The strapline resulted in a phone call between Hook Norton’s Managing Director James Clarke and a FIFA trademark official. The conversation resulted in a compromise whereby Striker will still be available in pubs but with an altered strapline.

The Oxfordshire brewer describes the 4.4% ABV ale as “a full-bodied summer sensation. Striker is a seasonal member of the first squad of Hooky beers, which will tackle even the thirstiest drinker and make extra time at the bar a sheer pleasure”. It adds that the beer is “a classic copper coloured beer with aromas of soft fruit. Striker is moreish, malty, smooth, well balanced taste, sweet with a slightly zingy bitterness and a pleasant aftertaste. Win, lose or draw Striker will be the star of the bar this summer.”

The issue of beer sponsorship made front page news this week after ITV pundit Robbie Earle lost his job over a controversy relating to him reportedly giving away complimentary tickets. The tickets ended up in the hands of a beer company and 36 women were amongst the spectators at the Holland V Denmark game, dressed in eye-catching orange clothes and promoting the unofficial beer brand.

17 June 2010