News and Press

Extent of cheap alcohol availability revealed

21 Jul 2010

Two reports have been published by NHS Health Scotland which show the extent of cheap alcohol sales in Scotland.

Their updated report on alcohol sales over the last five years (2005-09) shows that the average price of alcohol is £1.31 per unit in bars, pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels which account for 32% of all drink sold, but only 43p per unit in the off-trade, which accounts for 68% of sales.

A second publication, looking at off-sales prices, reveals just how much cheap alcohol is sold in Scotland. The report reveals that in the off-trade overall, 16% was sold at less than 30p per unit of alcohol, 51% at below 40p, and 77% below 50p.

SHAAP has responded to media coverage of the report, stating that this provides further evidence on the need for minimum pricing to end the widespread availability of very cheap alcohol.
Full details available on the NHS Health Scotland website