New online tool to help retailers with MUP hike

The Scottish Grocers Federation (SGF) has launched an online tool to support retailers with expected changes to Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP). 

Representing almost 5,200 stores in Scotland, the association has created an online free-to-use calculator to help retailers with the MUP rate increasing from 50p to 65p. 

SGF chief executive Pete Cheema said: “Many convenience retailers are at the very heart of their communities but some are working flat-out just to keep the lights on and doors open. We don’t believe this is a good time to be adding pressure onto retailers or struggling household budgets, so everything possible must be done to ensure this transition is straightforward and manageable.”

The calculator is available for both the current price and the new price at the SGF’s website and provides a scale slider to see the MUP for the chosen alcohol by volume.  

The SGF has also asked the Scottish Government to refresh their Retailers Guide, developed jointly in 2018 - when MUP was first introduced. 

Since confirmed by Deputy First Minister Shona Robison last month, the MUP hike is expected to come into force on September 30. The new rate will mean the cheapest bottle of whisky will cost £18.20 and a bottle of wine a minimum of £6.09.

Some have said the price increase will deter investment and put retailers at a higher risk of crime.

Currently, convenience stores employ almost 50,000 people in Scotland and generate more than £47bn in sales across the UK.

Supporters have said MUP will help tackle alcohol-related deaths and harm.