Retailers set to face a 15p increase in the minimum unit pricing (MUP) of alcohol in Scotland are to be given access to a government-backed guide on how to approach the change in legislation.

The new rate is to come into force from 30 September, whereby all Scottish businesses selling alcohol products to the public will be required to charge at least 65p per unit of alcohol.

It is not expected to see price changes across all product ranges, but targets alcohol cheap relative to strength in an effort to reduce harm from the overconsumption of alcohol.

A new guide available from 29 August published by the Scottish Grocers Federation and Scottish Government will provide advice for retailers on how to manage the rise.

Within the guide, MSP Christina McKelvie’s foreword said: “I am also grateful to all retailers who will work hard to comply with the new minimum unit price. By working together, we are taking steps to ensure that people in Scotland are less likely to suffer ill health or death due to alcohol related harm.”

The guide provides licenced businesses with all information ‘needed to comply’ on the MUP change, and includes how to calculate the correct MUP, examples across a wide range of possible product types, technical support, and practice from those ‘in the know’.

Public health minister Jenni Minto said: “I would 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.”

Pete Cheema, SGF chief executive officer, added: “Earlier this year SGF updated our online advice and MUP calculator with the new minimum unit price, announced by the Scottish government in February. We are now delighted to have the opportunity to work with the Scottish government to deliver this essential Retailers Guide to MUP.

“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.

“I want to thank the minister and her team for their support in developing the guide and working closely with SGF in recent months to raise awareness about the changes to MUP.”

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.

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