Resource Library
A curated list of tools, organisations, and references to help you navigate the UK spirits industry. These are starting points - always check for the most up-to-date information.
Government & Regulatory
- HMRC Spirits Producers Guidance – Rules on distilling, rectifying, and compounding spirits in the UK.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/spirits-producers - UK Alcohol Duty Rates – Current rates for spirits.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rates-and-allowances-excise-duty-alcohol-duties - Food Standards Agency – Labelling requirements, allergens, and food safety.
https://www.food.gov.uk/ - Department for Business and Trade (DIT) – Export guidance and support.
https://www.great.gov.uk/
Trade Bodies & Associations
- The Gin Guild – Industry networking, training, and events.
https://www.theginguild.com/ - Scotch Whisky Association – Guidance for Scotch producers.
https://www.scotch-whisky.org.uk/ - Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) – Advocacy, market data, compliance help.
https://www.wsta.co.uk/
Events & Networking
- Imbibe Live – UK drinks trade show for networking and brand exposure.
https://live.imbibe.com/ - London Spirits Competition – Product competition judged on quality, value, and packaging.
https://londonspiritscompetition.com/
Production & Development
- Institute of Brewing & Distilling – Technical resources and training.
https://www.ibd.org.uk/ - Campden BRI – Food and drink R&D, including sensory and stability testing.
https://www.campdenbri.co.uk/
Logistics & Distribution
- Palletline / Palletways – Pallet shipping networks for UK trade orders.
- ParcelForce / DPD Local – Courier services for D2C deliveries (check alcohol shipping rules).
- List of UK Bonded Warehouses – Search HMRC register for approved sites.
Learning & Reference
- Difford’s Guide – Cocktail recipes, spirits knowledge, and industry news.
https://www.diffordsguide.com/ - The Drinks Business – Trade news and trends.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/ - IWSR – Paid market data and analysis on global drinks trends.
https://www.theiwsr.com/
Tip: Bookmark and organise these resources now - you’ll be too busy during launch to hunt for links.