UK Department for Business and Trade Kevin Hollinrake said that these changes will take effect on 19 September 2024. Credit: Loch Earn/Shuttertsock.com.

UK Department for Business and Trade State Minister Kevin Hollinrake has indicated that pint-sized bottles of wine, equivalent to 568ml, are expected to be permitted on supermarket shelves from September 2024.

The decision was first announced in December 2023 and presented as a post-Brexit “freedom.” 

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This move is part of a broader initiative to introduce seven changes to pre-packaged wine sizes, aimed at supporting the UK’s wine industry by fostering innovation and expanding consumer choice. 

Hollinrake announced the changes on 2 May 2024 in the UK’s House of Commons.

He emphasised their potential benefits for the country’s wine sector, stating that they will support the thriving UK wine sector by providing opportunities and more choices for consumers. 

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But the proposal faced skepticism, as Scottish National Party (SNP) member of parliament for Glasgow North Patrick Grady questioned the demand for such a product, criticising the government’s Brexit policies.  

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Grady has urged the government to admit that there is “little to no demand or interest for this supposedly glorious Brexit benefit”.  

He also highlighted broader concerns, suggesting that the reality of Brexit has been a “nightmare” of border checks, business closures and reduced consumer choice. 

UK Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch defended the initiative, saying: “I can’t imagine why anyone would be complaining about the sale of pints of wine. If he doesn’t like it, he doesn’t have to buy it.”  

The government has indicated that this measure is part of its smarter regulation programme, which aims to ensure that food and beverage regulations are current and flexible.  

The introduction of pint-sized wine bottles follows consultations with the industry and will allow businesses to sell prepacked still and sparkling wine in 500ml and 200ml sizes, as well as the new 568ml quantity.