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Making the most of every opportunity
Whilst restaurants could be allowed to reopen in the coming weeks it is too early to determine the legacy that this pandemic will leave on our industry. Customer behaviours have understandably changed and at least in the short-term, it is highly likely that they will continue to order more takeaways and deliveries instead of eating within the restaurant. It is therefore essential that you make as much profit as possible from every single takeaway and delivery. This means selling them alcoholic beverages to accompany your delicious food.To legally supply alcohol to your customers for off-site consumption, it is key you have the correct alcohol licence. Here are some key points to consider:
Basic licence
As you will know, to sell or supply alcohol on a permanent basis from your establishment you need a premises licence.
Licence costs
The cost of a premises licence is based on your premises rateable value. For example, for a rateable value of £0 to £4,300, your premises will be band A and therefore the premises licence application would cost £100. You can see how your rateable value affects your band and associated cost here...
Government bands for licensing
Your current licence
Your premises licence will determine your approved hours to sell alcohol and whether you’re allowed Off-Sales (sometimes referred to as “Off Supplies”), which is what is needed to sell alcohol with a takeaway. It is worth double-checking your current licence to see if it already includes this, look for a reference to “ON AND OFF SUPPLIES”. If your current premises licence is for ‘On Supplies’ only, then you will need to apply to your local council for a full variation. The process is very similar to the application process for a new premises licence and the fee is the same.Requesting changes to your licence
Some councils accept electronic applications and there is a separate online application depending on whether you are in England and Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland. Please follow your relevant link above. Alternatively, you can download the postal form and guidance to vary a premises license. The process to change your license takes between 1-3 months, depending on your local council.
