1. What Is an Off Licence?
An off licence is a retail business that sells alcohol for consumption off the premises. This includes shops like:
- Corner shops and convenience stores
- Supermarkets
- Bottle shops and specialist alcohol retailers
- Online alcohol delivery services
The term “off licence” refers to the licence granted by a local council, allowing alcohol sales only for take-away, not on-site consumption.
2. What Products Can You Sell at an Off Licence?
- Beer, lager, cider
- Wine (red, white, rosé)
- Spirits (vodka, gin, whisky)
- Pre-mixed drinks and alcopops
- Alcohol-free or low-alcohol versions
- Snacks, tobacco, soft drinks (optional)
Off licences often diversify into other items to boost sales.
3. What Licence Do You Need?
To legally run an off licence in the UK, you need:
- Premises Licence: Allows your shop to sell alcohol
- Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS): A named person who must hold a Personal Licence
You apply through your local council, and your application is subject to public notice and consultation.
4. Key Requirements for an Off Licence
- Applicant must be over 18
- DPS must have a Personal Licence, which requires a qualification (e.g., BIIAB Level 2 Award)
- Business must comply with licensing objectives (preventing crime, public safety, etc.)
- Store layout and procedures must support age checks and responsible retailing
- Alcohol sales can only happen during licensed hours specified on the premises licence
5. How to Get a Premises Licence
- Apply to your local council online or by post
- Submit a floor plan and operating schedule
- Advertise your application in the local newspaper and onsite
- Wait for any objections (typically 28 days)
- If uncontested, the council will grant the licence
Fees vary by business rateable value, typically £100–£635 for the application and annual charges thereafter.
6. Rules for Selling Alcohol
- Must follow the Challenge 25 policy (ID checks)
- Cannot sell to drunk persons or under-18s
- Display alcohol licence summary on-site
- Keep incident and refusals log
- May require CCTV, signage, or training records based on local conditions
7. Benefits of Running an Off Licence
- Steady demand year-round
- High-margin products
- Potential to expand into online or delivery services
- Suitable for local and high-footfall areas
- Adds value to general retail businesses
8. Challenges to Consider
- Strict licensing compliance required
- Risk of fines or closure for underage sales
- Competition from supermarkets
- Need for stock control and loss prevention
- Local authority scrutiny and inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell alcohol without a licence?
No. It’s illegal and can result in heavy fines or imprisonment.
Do I need both a premises and personal licence?
Yes. The shop needs a premises licence, and one staff member must hold a personal licence.
How long does a premises licence last?
Indefinitely—unless revoked, but you must pay an annual fee.
Can I sell alcohol 24/7?
Only if your licence permits it. Most councils limit hours (e.g., 8am–11pm).
Do I need a separate licence for tobacco?
No, but you must comply with tobacco regulations and register with HMRC.
Can I run an off licence from home or online?
Yes, but you still need the same licences and must meet delivery age checks.
Conclusion
An off licence can be a profitable and steady business in the UK when operated legally and responsibly. Understanding the licensing process, compliance rules, and customer expectations is key to running a successful alcohol retail business. Prepare carefully, stay compliant, and serve your community with care.