The National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has welcomed the government's decision not to raise excise duty on alcohol in Budget 2016, saying that the move will 'offer some relief to the difficulties currently being faced by the independent off-licence industry in Ireland'.
"While independent SME’s are still operating in a very challenging economic environment, today’s announcement does provide an element of reassurance to business owners all over the country," said Evelyn Jones, NOffLA Government Affairs Director.
Jones added that since 2008, some 3,000 jobs (35%) have been lost in the sector and 546 off-licences have closed.
"While excise has not been increased in Budget 2016 it is important to note that consumers still have to pay 624% more excise on every bottle of wine purchased when compared to other EU countries. This disparity not only stifles business but limits consumer choice and discourages foreign investment in Ireland.
"We believe this extreme difference is unsustainable and needs to be addressed by the Government going forward.”
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Stephen Wynne-Jones
