THE Scottish Grocers Federation is preparing to roll out a package of advice to guide retailers through the introduction of minimum unit pricing on May 1.
From that date, every business in Scotland selling alcohol to the public will be required by law to charge a minimum price per unit (expected to be 50p).
The SGF, with the assistance of TLT Solicitors, is currently developing comprehensive guidance for retailers, likely to be distributed in early April.
SGF head of policy and public affairs John Lee said: “This is a new condition of licence, so anyone with a licence is under obligation to sell at the minimum unit price. You cannot sell below that price.
“There’s not going to be any lead-in time or sell-through period. It’s going to happen on the 1 May and everyone will be expected to be compliant on that date.
“For most retailers it will probably affect a fairly small number of products, though some stores will be more dependent on the types of drinks this is aimed at.”
As well as a breakdown of the legislation, the guidance will include FAQs, an ‘implementation checklist’ and the formula for calculating the minimum price for an alcoholic drink.
The SGF is also working with the Scottish Government on a communication campaign that will include materials for stores and customers.
Lee said: “We can foresee a situation where some customers may take umbrage at having to pay £12 for their favourite 3L cider and any frustration is likely to be taken out on the retailer. So the customer-facing part of the strategy is very important.
“Our aim is make the transition as smooth as we can for members and we’re happy to be working with the Scottish Government on that.”
The SGF’s guidance should be ready for distribution following the conclusion of the parliamentary process on MUP around the end of March.
In the meantime, for further information on MUP, retailers are advised to visit minimumunitpricing.scot.
