Poles for or against “monkeys”? Surprising data
Poles increasingly notice the problem of the availability of strong alcohol in small bottles, popularly known as “monkeys”.
SW Research results show that nearly half of respondents believe that excise duty on these products should be even higher. At the same time, 57 percent respondents believe that “monkeys” are too easily available, and 45 percent supports a complete ban on their sale.
Monkey tax as an element of health policy
The retail price of alcohol in Poland is shaped by many factors, such as production and distribution costs and the amount of taxes. As part of counteracting excessive consumption, from 2021 an additional fee on alcohol in small bottles, the so-called “monkey fee”. This is a solution that is intended to limit the popularity of “monkeys” and change the structure of alcohol consumption in favor of drinks with a lower percentage. Bartłomiej Morzycki from the Association of Brewing Industry Employers, Browary Polskie, notes: ‘Excise tax is a tool influencing alcohol prices. “The higher excise tax on vodka than on beer is in line with EU directives and applied throughout Europe to limit the consumption of spirits.”
Social and health problem related to “monkeys”
SW Research conducted in December 2024 showed that the consumption of “monkeys” is associated with significant social and health problems. As much as 74 percent respondents believe that this type of alcohol increases the risk of addiction, and 70 percent claims that it promotes regular drinking. The data on where monkeys are eaten is surprising. They are most often consumed near shops (78%) or even during work (25%). Many people (39%) indicate that “monkeys” may be the first choice of teenagers trying alcohol, and 61%. respondents believe that this product is dedicated to people with alcohol problems.
Should “monkeys” disappear from the market?
A growing number of Poles believe that the availability of “monkeys” should be limited and the prices of these products should be increased. In the SW Research study, 46 percent respondents were in favor of increasing taxes on small bottles of vodka. Similar results were brought by the IBRiS survey from July 2024, in which over half of respondents supported higher prices for alcohol in packages up to 300 ml.
Experts emphasize that compulsive consumption of vodka in small bottles is a growing problem that requires further regulatory actions. “Many sponsored publications suggest that beer is the main problem in Poland. However, research results clearly indicate that “monkeys” pose a greater threat,” notes Bartłomiej Morzycki.
Research methodology
The December SW Research study was conducted using online interviews (CAWI) on a sample of 805 people aged 18-65. The IBRiS survey commissioned by Radio ZET, carried out in July 2024, covered 1,067 respondents and was conducted using the CATI method. Both analyzes show a clear trend – Poles are increasingly critical of the impact of “monkeys” on society.
