THE much-acclaimed trade guide for independent retailers selling alcohol, produced last autumn by leading industry trade associations the Scottish Grocers' Federation (SGF) and the Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA), has been launched as an App on iTunes.

'The Alcohol Act Explained - A Guide to the Legislation', an important guide to the law for retailers, was produced by the SGF and SWA in advance of key changes to licensing legislation that took effect under the Alcohol Etc (Scotland) Act 2010 from 1st October 2011. Now, independent retailers can access it at any time via the new App on iTunes.

Acknowledged by the Scottish Government, the publication - a comprehensive reference guide to the licensing legislation governing the sale of alcohol via off-licences in Scotland - is a unique collaboration between the SGF and SWA, and was produced in partnership with leading drinks companies Heineken UK, Molson Coors, Diageo, AB InBev UK, Maxxium UK, Accolade Wines, Whyte & Mackay, Carlsberg and Tennent Caledonian Breweries.

John Drummond, chief executive of the SGF, said: "With what may often seem like a constant raft of legislation governing the licensing, stocking and selling of alcohol it is important that retailers are up to date and fully aware of their obligations. The orange book was warmly received by the trade in this regard and now that same information is available in a more convenient and mobile format."

SWA president George Benson commented: "The way we communicate is changing and evolving, and we have a duty to respond to this by relaying important information to our members and their customers using the up-to-date technology that is now widely available.

"We do now live in a digital world where we can access information at the touch of a screen or button, and on the move - anywhere and any time. The SWA, therefore, is delighted to be at the forefront of the industry in utilising cutting-edge technology and communication methods.

"Our members will email the App link to their retail customers and the information will also be highlighted on the SWA's website to ensure that as many people as possible know about it."

Access the App at: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/b-legal-taa/id527316844?ls=1&mt=8