Blackbeard’s and Jacques Scott Join NDC Push for Safer Alcohol Sales

NDC broadens off‑premise training

The National Drug Council (NDC) has expanded its Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) and off‑premise alcohol sales training to distributors and retail outlets as part of its island‑wide prevention and public safety strategy. The initiative is aimed at strengthening safe and lawful alcohol sales practices at every point of sale across the Cayman Islands.​

“Responsible service must extend across the entire supply chain — including distributors, retail outlets, convenience stores and package stores — as every point of sale plays a role in protecting public safety,” said NDC Director Brenda Watson.

Cayman Brac retailers take part

In the most recent training, staff from a major distributor on Grand Cayman were joined by employees from the group’s Cayman Brac retail outlet, Blackbeard’s, who travelled to attend the off‑premise session held on the Brac. Representatives from Jacques Scott Wines & Spirits also participated, reflecting a shared effort among retailers and distributors to improve safeguards around alcohol sales.

“Working with the teams from Blackbeard’s and Jacques Scott’s on Cayman Brac showed once again how seriously retailers take their role in protecting the community,” said NDC Prevention Specialist Simon Miller.

Emphasis on legal duties and harm reduction

The RBS off‑premise training focuses on the specific risks associated with take‑home alcohol sales, including preventing underage access and avoiding over‑service. Participants receive guidance on verifying identification, recognising signs of intoxication, refusing sales when necessary and understanding their responsibilities under Cayman Islands law.

NDC states that building skills and awareness among front‑line staff is intended to reduce alcohol‑related harm, support enforcement of existing legislation and help ensure safer consumption practices in homes and communities.

Part of Arrive Alive 345 campaign

This off‑premise training forms part of the NDC’s wider, coordinated campaign to address alcohol service and sales from resorts and bars to distributors and retail stores. The initiative reinforces the Arrive Alive 345 message encouraging people to plan ahead, designate a sober driver and make use of safe transport options, particularly over the holiday season.​

How businesses can get involved

Retail outlets, distributors and package stores interested in future RBS and off‑premise training sessions can visit www.ndc.ky or contact the National Drug Council at 949‑9000 for more information and registration. The NDC is a statutory authority mandated to reduce the harms of substance misuse through research, prevention, policy development and evidence‑based programmes that promote safer, healthier communities across the Cayman Islands.