Scottish retailers have expressed surprise and concern at proposals from the Scottish Executive which could restrict where alcohol can be displayed in their stores.
The Executive has published the proposals on licensing regulations aimed at tackling problems related to the misuse of alcohol. However, the plans could mean convenience stores would have to display all alcohol behind the counter.
John Drummond, chief executive of the Scottish Grocers' Federation (SGF), said that the proposals were a worrying development for small retailers as alcohol sales are a major part of many retailers' businesses. "If these were to become legislation they would cause no end of problems to our members," he warned.
He described the proposals as "a bit of a nonsense" and said he did not believe they were likely to solve the problems associated with alcohol misuse.
Drummond added that he was hopeful the Executive would listen to the SGF's view. "This could be aimed more at supermarkets and I hope the legislators will recognise the plight of smaller stores."
Interested parties have until December 8 to respond to the proposals.

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