Today (1st May) marks the closure of the Alcohol Duty Stamps Scheme, which means that alcohol manufacturers, importers and wholesalers no longer need to register, obtain, or apply Alcohol Duty stamps to retail containers previously covered by the scheme.

The following changes will come into effect today:

1. Alcohol manufacturers, importers and wholesalers no longer need to register, obtain, or apply Alcohol Duty stamps to retail containers previously covered by the scheme.
2. Producers may continue to supply them in the same way, as the government has not required businesses to obliterate or remove stamps already attached. From this date, however, businesses are free to remove duty stamps without restriction.
3. From 1 May 2025, both legacy stamped products, and unstamped products may be sold and supplied by retailers – there will no penalties against retail businesses that sell stamped products after this date.
4. Businesses should continue to comply with all of their legal obligations, due diligence, and requirements of the Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme.

We have created a briefing to explain what the scheme is and how to verify the legitimacy of alcohol products following the closure of the scheme. You can access and download ACS’ guidance document on the portal here.

For any questions about the new legislation, please email [email protected]

If you require a portal login, please email [email protected] or [email protected]