Retail chiefs react to alcohol price rise
INDUSTRY leaders have given a mixed reaction to the introduction of a higher minimum unit price (MUP) for alcohol.
Coming into force today (30 September), the MUP across alcohol products has risen from 50p to its new set price of 65p.
The Scottish Government said it had made this decision in an attempt to reduce the number of alcohol-related deaths in Scotland, which Parliament announced had risen up to 1,277 in 2024.
Despite this, ScotGov’s plans have come under fire in the sector, with many stating the new MUP will do little to help those with an addiction to alcohol.
Mo Razzaq, national president of the Fed, said: “Putting the minimum unit price up to 65p is not going to tackle the issue of alcohol consumption.
“Anyone with alcohol abuse issues will steal the product if they cannot afford it, as it is an addiction. The Government is not spending enough to get people addicted to alcohol the help they need.
“There also needs to be highly effective campaigning to help change Scotland’s attitude towards drink. As usual, it is passing the buck to businesses.”
The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has argued that the timing for this new price rise will be a further challenge for retailers, who will now need to ensure staff are well-trained and up-to-date with the changes in addition to ongoing financial stresses and other legislation coming down the pipeline.
Pete Cheema, chief exec at the SGF, said: “While it’s our view that now is not the right time to be increasing prices, it is vital that there is clear guidance and support for licensed sellers.
“SGF’s primary aim is to promote responsible, community-based retailing, and we will continue to support our retailers with all regulatory changes as they are brought forward.”
In August, the SGF published an MUP Retailers’ Guide in partnership with the Scottish Government, offering a comprehensive resource on everything sellers need to know to comply with the law.
And earlier in the year, the organisation also updated its online MUP Calculator, giving retailers plenty of time to adjust their prices.
Cheema added: “SGF has been working closely with Ministers to support retailers with the change in MUP and to ensure our members are fully compliant with the regulations after 30 September.”
