Message from the CEO – Duty Increase

Dear Member,

In the Chancellor’s Spring Budget on 15th March 2023 we were all told alcohol duty rates would be frozen until the 1st August 2023. The UK HM Revenue and Customs published a briefing note on 1st July which said that, “On 1st August 2023, the Alcohol Duty system would become much simpler, taxing all alcoholic drinks based on their alcohol by volume (ABV). This replaces the current Alcohol Duty system, which consists of four separate taxes covering beer, cider, spirits, wine and made-wine”. From 1st August HMRC have said “that the duty will reflect the strength of the drink”.

As this increase has been set by the Government, we have no negotiation grounds with our suppliers, and alcoholic drinks purchased from them by the Club after the 1st August will reflect the changes. Due to this you will see some beverage price increases when you visit the Club after the change date, although we will still offer excellent value compared to our competitors and the local area. You will be pleased to note that there will be no duty increase on draft beer or sparkling wine. Victory Ale will remain at £3.00 a pint; some of our bottled ciders will come down in price.

Notwithstanding the changes, over which we have no control, our commitment to providing Value, Service and Courtesy will remain at the forefront of our membership offer. The staff look forward to seeing you again in the Club and we wish you well.

Warm regards,

Nigel Beet
CEO and Club Secretary