Managing alcohol overconsumption with self-pour technology

A bar in Detroit is looking to limit overconsumption with new self-pour technology. CTV Windsor’s Stefanie Masotti checks it out.

A Detroit taphouse details how self-pour technology works, a concept it uses that ensures the owner and his employees are not held liable if a patron chooses to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

Once a patron walks through the front doors of Corktown Taphouse, they are required to show their ID indicating they are at least 21 years old.

After providing a credit card, the customer receives a wristband that uses RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology to track every ounce poured.

“You can pour up to 32 ounces of the beer category, whether it’s a cider, seltzer or sour, you can pour up to 18 ounces of wine,” said Ron Moore, owner and president, Corktown Taphouse.

After a brief set of instructions presented by ‘wall ambassadors,’ customers pour their own drinks from a choice of 76 taps.

The wristband de-activates after 32 ounces of beer is consumed.

“In the state of Michigan, or any state in the U.S., you have to be reactivated to make sure you’re not intoxicated,” said Moore.

“It’s the state’s way of saying that we are checking you to make sure that you’re not over serving yourself.”

If a patron wants more credits added to their wristband, they must have a conversation with one of the wall ambassadors.

“You can tell the eyes are glossy. You can tell they’re slowing down a little bit. You can tell they’re stumbling. You can tell they’re swaying,” added Moore.

If the ambassador feels it’s no longer safe to serve a customer, their wristband will not be re-activated.

“They’re going to say, ‘Hey, I’m not going to be able to reauthorize your wristband. I’m sorry. Thanks for coming in.’ You know, we want you to go home the same way you came. And I want you to be safe.”

There is one similar tap house that operates in Mississauga, Ont.

Pour My Beer is one of the three main companies that provide this technology. They say each tap costs between $700 to $1,000.

Last week, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) issued a recommendation to suspend the liquor licence of an east Windsor, Ont., sports bar for 60 days because of the alleged service of a patron that contributed to a fatal crash last year.

Moore suggested self pour technology is an option establishments on this side of the border should consider if they want to add that essential layer of protection for the business, its employees, and customers.

“It would be a nice investment,” he added.

“You get to help them explore their palette of different beverages while keeping them safe.”