Changes are afoot in Scotland when it comes to alcohol. From 30 September, all Scottish businesses selling alcohol products to the public will be required to charge at least 65p per unit of alcohol, a rise of 15p.
To assist retailers, the Scottish Government and Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) have published an official guide to minimum unit pricing (MUP), ahead of the planned increase.
The increase is not expected to see price changes across all product ranges as it targets alcohol that is cheap relative to strength, in an effort to reduce harm from the overconsumption of alcohol.
The new guide takes a comprehensive look at everything sellers need to know to comply with the law, including information on how to calculate the correct MUP, worked examples across a wide range of possible product types, easy to understand technical support and best practice from those in the know.
Public Health Minister, Jenni Minto, said: “I’d like to thank everyone involved in producing this valuable guide which will help retailers across Scotland implement the new minimum unit price. Research commended by internationally renowned public health experts estimated that our world-leading policy has saved hundreds of lives, likely averted hundreds of alcohol-attributable hospital admissions and contributed to reducing health inequalities.”
Dr Pete Cheema OBE, SGF Chief Executive (pictured), added: “The SGF’s primary aim is to promote responsible, community-based retailing. Being able to support local licensed traders with the changeover will help ensure full compliance and give retailers the confidence they need to carry on operating within the law.
Alongside the Guide, SGF has provided additional materials to help train staff and raise public awareness of the increase in price, such as in-store posters, self-edge labelling and a staff training record.
The full guide can be viewed here.
No comments yet