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The dominant story in alcohol licensing remains ongoing government reform of the Licensing Act 2003 framework. 👉 Over the past few weeks, industry commentary and legal updates have reinforced that: Core proposals still in play: ➡️ In short: The system is shifting from control → enablement. Important Shift: Policy vs Local Authority Control A key theme that has become clearer
If your business buys alcohol from a UK wholesaler to sell on, you have a legal obligation to verify that wholesaler’s AWRS registration. Most operators know this. What most operators don’t do is check regularly — or keep any evidence that they checked at all. A Quick Recap on AWRS The Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme was introduced by HMRC in 2016, with
1. Creation of a National Licensing Policy Framework (NLPF) The proposed National Licensing Policy Framework would shift much of the strategic decision‑making power over alcohol licensing away from local authorities and toward central government. According to recent analysis, the framework would act as a “central rulebook” directing how councils must interpret and apply the Licensing Act 2003 in practice. It
1. What’s New This Month? Digital Age Verification (DVS) is advancing towards secondary legislation, with the Home Office shaping rules allowing certified digital identity providers to replace or supplement physical ID checks. This work includes assurance on fraud controls, data security and identity confidence levels. Government licensing reforms continue to dominate the national debate, with proposals including a National Licensing
Despite our best efforts with Google search parameters, The Licensing Guys ™ receive about ten enquiries per week from the public asking us to challenge their Driving Ban, replace their Lost Driving Licence and occasionally sort out their TV Licence. However we sometimes DO receive enquiries about types of Alcohol Licences that we do not handle. These in the most
Welcome to this week’s WALB! Here we’ve focused on developments that matter for operators across England & Wales. Home Office drops a fresh Section 182 Guidance update (12 Feb) The Home Office has published a revised S.182 Guidance (February 2026) and updated its GOV.UK landing page. Key changes listed in the update log include: Why this matters to you: When
Welcome to this week’s update on the regulatory landscape for alcohol licensed premises acrossEngland and Wales. As always, we bring you the developments that matter to operators, landlords,and hospitality professionals—clearly explained 1. Digital Age Verification Set to Transform Alcohol Sales The Home Office is progressing work to permit Digital Verification Services (DVS) as an approvedform of age verification for alcohol
Overview about licensing Vineyards Licensing a vineyard in England and Wales involves several legal and regulatory steps, depending on whether you’re growing grapes, producing wine, selling it wholesale or retail, or hosting events. Here’s a comprehensive overview: 🍇 1. Vineyard Registration All vineyards over 0.1 hectares (approx. ÂĽ acre) must be registered with the Food Standards Agency (FSA). Smaller vineyards
The Government’s Response to Licensing Taskforce Report was published 14 September 2025. In it, the UK government has formally responded to the Licensing Taskforce’s recommendations, signaling a significant shift in licensing law aimed at revitalizing the hospitality and leisure sectors. Key Themes and Planned Reforms: These reforms are still in the planning phase, but the Government has expressed urgency in
In a landmark move to protect public health and restore confidence in the aesthetics industry, the UK Government has announced sweeping new licensing regulations for non-surgical cosmetic procedures. The reforms, unveiled in August 2025, aim to eliminate rogue operators and ensure that treatments are only carried out by qualified professionals in safe, regulated environments. What’s Changing? The new framework introduces
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Q: Why The Licensing Guys should be the licensing partner for you…?Â
A: These are the three biggest themes that come out of our Google Reviews:
