From 1 October 2026, new Scottish regulations will restrict the promotion and placement of certain foods and drinks high in fat, sugar or salt (HFSS) by qualifying businesses.
The Scottish Government says the changes are intended to support healthier choices by limiting promotions and prominent placement of less healthy food and drink.
The rules apply to specified categories of prepacked food and drink, including confectionery, crisps and savoury snacks, cakes, biscuits, pizza, sweetened yoghurts and certain drinks. Not every product within these categories will necessarily be in scope.
For qualifying businesses, the regulations will restrict volume price promotions, such as buy-one-get-one-free and three-for-two offers, and the placement of targeted products in prominent locations, including entrances, checkouts and aisle ends. There are separate restrictions on free refills of certain sugary drinks.
Wholesalers should consider whether the rules affect any part of their own business, where they sell food directly to the public, as well as what the changes mean for their retail and other customers ahead of 1 October.
To help members raise awareness of the regulations with their customers, we have produced a special HFSS Poster for display in depots and for use within any customer facing communications and publications.
As additional support, SWA are providing printed posters, free of charge, to members that will utilise them in their depots. These can be ordered through Robyn Cooper, SWA’s Member Engagement Officer.
A dedicated HFSS web page has also been created and that contains full details on the regulations along with downloadable resources including a retailer guidance booklet, produced by SGF, created to help educated retailers on the practical things they must do to comply with the regulations. There is also a poster for retailers to display in their stores, informing the consumer about the changes.
