The confluence of legacy, corporate social responsibility, and public health: The case of Migros and alcohol-free retailing in Switzerland

Posted on 22 February 2024

New article by Dr Matt Lesch

photo of Matt Lesch

Dr Matt Lesch has had a new article published in Volume 125 March 2024 edition of the International Journal of Drug Policy.

"The confluence of legacy, corporate social responsibility, and public health: The case of Migros and alcohol-free retailing in Switzerland"

Abstract

Background

Alcohol policy studies have traditionally focused on formal policymaking processes. Retail cooperatives, however, have rarely been studied as sites of public health interventions. Migros, a cooperatively owned chain of supermarkets in Switzerland, has long forbidden alcohol sales in its supermarkets. Focusing on processes of framing, this study explores a recent unsuccessful attempt to reverse the long-standing ban via membership vote in 2022.

Methods

The study draws on a range of data sources, including company documents, a televised debate, and the results of a large online survey among the general population conducted ahead of the referendum. Using thematic analysis, it investigates various campaign-related arguments, including those made by Migros management, NGOs, and other key campaign participants.

Results

Proponents and opponents used a combination of public health, economic/market-oriented, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) frames. Migros's longstanding dedication to CSR, its participatory governance structure, and the regional political dynamics in the Swiss context are essential in understanding the nature and impact of framing.

Conclusions

Alcohol-related harm arises from a complex interaction between different social, political, and economic factors. Reducing harm requires approaches that consider the range of contexts and measures that can shape alcohol availability.