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.