BYOB Alcohol Promotion “Shots by H & R BYOB” in Piliyandala, Colombo

Location: Piliyandala town, Colombo District

Date of observation: 10th July 2025

Reported by: Thanuri Somasiri

Overview:

The restaurant named “Shots by H & R BYOB” located in Piliyandala town of the Colombo district promotes alcohol through text, visuals and other marketing tactics.

Location Details:

The restaurant is located in front of the Damro showroom, Piliyandala Bypass road, at walking distance to the Piliyandala town. There are 2-4 other popular restaurants, and grocery stores within walking distance in this area. There is a restaurant named “Dara Lipa” next door, where a lot of common people have lunch and dinner.

It is located near the end of the new piliyandala bypass road, which leads to Kesbewa. Therefore it is visible to a lot of passengers and pedestrians.

Promotional strategies:

The restaurant Shots by H & R directly promotes alcohol. In addition, they have a signboard which says "Shots BYOB" with an image of beer glasses which is visible to a larger distance before the restaurant itself becomes visible. This is advertised through neon lighting during the night time, creating attraction and emanating a "luxury" atmosphere.

Implications and concerns:

The promotional strategies used by “Shots by H & R BYOB,” including the prominent neon signage with alcohol imagery, contribute to the glamorization of alcohol use in a public and highly visible space. The location’s proximity to other restaurants and grocery stores frequented by families and the general public increases the possibility of exposure to alcohol promotion.