Subscriber login Close [x]
remember me
You are not logged in.

New weights and measures legislation allows for licensee 'innovation'

Published:  26 August, 2011

Samples of wine can now be sold under 75ml, according to new legislation from the National Measurement Office (NMO).

Changes in the law for weights and measures comes into force from October 1.

They include: a new specified quantity of 2/3 pint for draught beer and cider will be available for any licensed premises that choose to offer it, draught beer and cider can now be sold in 1/3 pint,1/2 pint, 2/3 pint or multiples of 1/2 pints.


Specified quantities will no longer apply to servings of wine below 75ml, which the NMO says will allow for innovation in the sale of small glasses of wine as samples.


The existing quantities for fortified wines will be reduced - fortified wine may now be sold in quantities of 50ml, 70ml or a multiplier of either.

The NMO says changes have been implemented to provide greater flexibility to businesses whilst ensuring that the measures remain appropriate and continue to offer protection to consumers.

It specifies that the guidance is not obligatory, but recommend that Licensees should follow the guidance on good practice to ensure the business meets its legal obligations in respect of the amendments to the existing legislation.



A copy of the NMO's Guidance for Businesses can be reviewed at http://www.bis.gov.uk/nmo/news-and-events/news/2011/Jul/Guidance-for-business-published.

Keywords: