Jersey Lifts Ban on Happy Hours and 2-for-1 Drink Deals

Jersey Bars Toast End of Nearly 40-Year Happy Hour Ban — Tiki Hut First to Announce Discount Deals

A decades-old restriction on drinks promotions in Jersey has officially been lifted, clearing the way for pubs and bars to reintroduce happy hours and multi-buy deals for the first time since 1987.

Starting at midnight tonight (29 May), venues across the island will be free to offer drink discounts and promotions like 2-for-1 deals — something that has long been banned under strict licensing rules.

The Jersey Hospitality Association (JHA), which lobbied for the change, argued that the outdated rules had fueled a rise in pre-drinking and excessive alcohol consumption at home, while penalising bars and restaurants trying to compete with cheaper off-licence prices.

Marcus Calvani, Co-CEO of the JHA, welcomed the move: “When the guidance was introduced, there were real concerns around excessive drinking in venues offering heavily discounted alcohol. But that was nearly 40 years ago.

“Times have changed. The rising cost of operating a hospitality business meant venues were being undercut by off-licences, and customers were turning to at-home drinking in ways that actually encouraged binge behaviours."

He praised the collaborative effort behind the decision: “The Health Minister, Deputy Tom Binet, the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, Deputy Kirsten Morel, and Police Chief Robin Smith all played a key role in reaching a solution that supports both public health and economic growth."

Calvani also urged venues to exercise caution: “This freedom comes with responsibility. If the system is abused, the restrictions could easily return.”

Among the first to embrace the change is the Tiki Hut, a popular local bar that wasted no time in announcing its new happy hour schedule. The venue will offer discounted drink prices in the early evenings, aiming to attract post-work crowds and revive the social drinking culture in town.

Islanders can now expect a livelier atmosphere at their favourite spots — but the industry knows all eyes will be on how this new era of relaxed rules is handled.