Independent retailers have hit out at Scottish government plans to further restrict in-store alcohol displays, calling it “unnecessary red tape”. 

Under the proposals, which aim to target underage drinking, window displays could be banned and alcohol removed from near entrances, exits or checkouts. 

End-of-aisle displays could also be prohibited and behind-the-counter alcohol sales restricted to closed cupboards. 

However, Scottish retailers told Better Retailing they believe current alcohol licensing laws are adequate, and the majority of retailers trade responsibly. 

Dennis Williams, owner of Premier Broadway in Edinburgh, said: “As part of our licensing terms, we already restrict the sale of alcohol to one area. This is extra red tape for no reason, at a time when we have enough on our plates. Plus, there aren’t enough licensing officers to police this.” 

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In Scotland, alcohol is already regulated through specific licences which restrict alcohol sales to certain areas depending on the agreement. Temporary price reductions and multibuy sales are also banned. 

Natalie Lightfoot, owner of Solo Londis Convenience in Glasgow, believes having a closed cabinet similar to those regulating tobacco sales would not address the problem. “Not being able to display alcohol behind the counter would affect me. My display has been approved and is light and bright, but a closed cupboard would make my small store look dark and shady. 

“My staff already receive abuse over refusals to sell, and we do everything we can by keeping a refusal log. Instead of moving further towards prohibition, the government should be supporting us with retailer safety and extra help to combat proxy purchasing.” 

A Scottish government spokesperson said: “Visibility of alcohol in the retail environment may influence children to think of alcohol in the same way as other everyday consumer goods sold at shops like food, clothes and medicines.” 

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However, it acknowledged that if changes in the law were to happen, work would be needed to understand the impact on smaller stores before any potential restrictions were introduced. 

Matt Lambert, chief executive of alcohol regulatory body the Portman Group, said: “These recommendations are entirely disproportionate and inhibit consumers’ abilities to make informed choices, and restrict the ability to trade for producers and retailers who ensure alcohol is sold responsibly.” 

The Scottish government consultation ends in March 2023. 

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