Alcohol sales to underage buyers in the Netherlands in 2011 and 2013

Purpose Measuring vendors' compliance and possible change in compliance with the legal age limits on alcohol sales in 2011 and 2013. Methods In 2011 and 2013, representative mystery shopping studies were conducted. In total, 2,737 underage mystery shopping alcohol purchase attempts were conducted both in off-premise (supermarkets, liquor stores, and take away restaurants) and on-premise (bars and sports bars) outlets as well as from alcohol home delivery services. Results Average compliance increased significantly from 28.2% in 2011 to 46.5% in 2013, and asking proof of age (ID) also increased significantly from 43.9% in 2011 to 54.1% in 2013. Conclusions Both asking proof of age and, ultimately, compliance with the legal age limits increased significantly. Nevertheless, still 53.5% of the adolescents could purchase alcohol themselves, which makes alcohol largely available through the various premises