Scotland - Is the drink drive limit impacting the licensed trade?

In a survey produced by the Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) it has been revealed that 64% of licensed premises have seen a decline in like-for-like sales of up to 10% in the first quarter of 2015, versus the same period last year.

Alcohol sales have been hardest hit, with 72% reporting a downturn of 10% or more; some outlets reported food revenues were down by more than a third.

The study also highlighted the concern of operators, with 52% envisaging a further decline throughout 2015, and just 13% expecting growth.

A number of operators feel that the change to the drink drive limit, which took effect on December 5, has led to the downturn.

Operators should be aware that the change to the drink drive limit could be considered a “material change in circumstances” and grounds for a business rates appeal. Appeals made by March 31 (via the Scottish Assessors Association – saa.gov.uk) could, if successful, be back-dated to December 5.