News

Trade group the Scottish Beer & Pub Association today launches a major campaign to help pubs prepare for a major change in licensing law. On October 1 it becomes a mandatory condition for the holders of all premises and occasional licences to have an age verification policy in place. Part of the drive to combat underage sales, the policy must instruct staff to ask for a customer’s identification (in the form of a passport, European photocard driving licence or other prescribed document) if they appear under 25 when attempting to buy alcohol.

WM Morton director John Gilligan has been confirmed as the new sales boss of Tennent Caledonian Breweries. The industry veteran will head the sales team for Tennent’s, Scotland’s biggest alcohol brand, after being headhunted by C&C chief operating officer Stephen Glancey. The move reunites Gilligan, who joins on September 12, with several former Scottish & Newcastle execs now in senior roles at C&C, including Glancey and John Dunsmore, CEO of the Dublin-based firm.

BAR and nightclub operators have been urged to join forces and oppose a proposed hike in music licence fees. Donald MacLeod, whose company, CPL, operates The Garage, Tunnel and Cathouse nightclubs in Glasgow, has called on the trade to mount a robust defence against the proposals, which could see operators charged significantly more for ‘specially featured entertainment’, in other words DJs in bars, clubs and hotels.

SMIRNOFF has teamed up with Madonna for the latest stage of its Nightlife Exchange Project. The promotion has already seen Smirnoff hosting events in...

Forthcoming Alcohol Act puts age-restricted sales in spotlight NEW legislation coming in on October 1 puts into stark relief the first commandment in the licensee’s...

A GLASGOW restaurant has launched a ‘designer’ steak. Inspired by esteemed British luxury handbag manufacturer Mulberry, the Mulberry Steak has been added to the menu...

EDINBURGH bartender Andrew Kearns was crowned the winner of a Caorunn gin cocktail competition earlier this month. Held in capital venue The Voodoo Rooms, in...

Turnberry launches iPad drinks lists in its three bars AYRSHIRE resort Turnberry has taken its drinks menu to the next level, making it available on...

SPANISH beer returned to TV and cinema screens this month with a campaign titled una vida bien vivida - a life well lived. The ad,...

Spirits giant Bacardi-Martini has set its sights on grabbing a slice of the rum category’s fastest-growing sector. The firm last week launched Bacardi Oakheart –...