Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cup Levy
By Yvonne Reynolds-Young
Time after time aspiring new entrants to the vending industry ask us who they should be talking to. Clearly, they made the right call by talking to Planet Vending in the first place; but almost without exception we tell them that if they’re truly serious about vending, they should a) talk to the AVA and b) join up.
Below is the latest proof that the AVA is our major resource, and that it must be supported, for everyone’s sake. They aren’t just there to give everyone a great time at Christmas! Apart from being unbiased in their advice, they’re all over government activity and legislation.
This time though, they’re asking for the help of their membership. Here’s what they wrote…
‘The Scottish government is pushing forward with a Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cup Levy, with proposals that could have devastating effects on vending businesses. After months of engagement with Scottish environmental and governmental bodies, we’ve successfully raised concerns, and a potential exemption for drinks sold from vending machines has been included in the current consultation. However, this exemption isn’t guaranteed.
Why this matters: If this legislation passes without an exemption for vending, it could spell disaster for operators in Scotland, leading to significant financial impacts. Even if your business only trades in snacks, confectionery, or soft drinks, this could still impact your customers – and therefore your business.
Single-Use Disposable Beverage Cup Levy
Here’s what you need to know:
- The current proposal includes a 20p to 50p (or more!) levy on single-use disposable cups starting in 2025.
- Question 6 of the consultation asks if drinks sold from vending machines should be exempt. We need your action on this!
- The AVA represents 24,500 operator employees across the UK, but we need individual responses from all businesses to ensure the voices calling for this exemption aren’t outnumbered.
Action Required: You should respond personally to this consultation either on behalf of your company or as an individual.
To protect your business, it is vital that you respond before the deadline of 14th November. Even if your vending business isn’t primarily in Scotland, this could set a dangerous precedent for the rest of the UK.’
How to respond:
- Download the attached Word document. Found on this link
- Add your name and details.
- Re-save the file with your name.
- Save as a pdf.
- Send by email to: SUPD@gov.scot
*If this matters to you, and you aren’t an AVA member already – get in touch with David Llewellyn and sign up fast. Alternatively, say hello at Vendex North. Make sure your voice is heard and help protect the future of vending!
More on the AVA on Planet Vending HERE
