The Brewers' Association of Scotland (TBAS) has launched a free hotline for brewers offering advice on licensing and HMRC from TLT LLP and Johnston Carmichael.

Scotland’s brewing industry is flourishing; there are more than 125 operating breweries throughout the country stretching from Shetland to Stranraer, and the public appetite for Scottish beer shows no sign of slowing down.

The new hotline service, launched at Stewart Brewing in Edinburgh, is available exclusively to members of TBAS and will provide help and support for Scottish brewers on a wide range of licensing and HMRC issues including licence applications and training, Small Brewers' Relief scheme, VAT, import and export producers and excise licensing, as well as broader legal and accountancy services.

The Brewers’ Association of Scotland (TBAS) was set up by brewers for brewers to help to capitalise on this phenomenal growth. TBAS works to create opportunities which help to grow the sector, its reputation and individual businesses. The licensing hotline will be operated by the TLT LLP, a top-tier law firm for licensing in Scotland, and Johnston Carmichael, Scotland's food and drink accountancy experts.

By calling the Johnston Carmichael's 'hopline', brewers can speak to JC specialists who can assist with Small Brewers Relief, Excise Licensing, VAT, Import and Export procedures as well as broader specialist accountancy services like growth funding and tax relief incentives.

Adam Hardie, Partner and Head of Food & Drink at Johnston Carmichael said: “I am passionate about craft beer and our firm have been involved with TBAS from the start.  We have a wealth of brewing accounting and tax expertise which we use to help brewery owners make better business decisions. Our specialists regularly get issues resolved with HMRC, raise funding to help breweries grow and manage day to day accounting and tax needs.”

Brewers who are interested in accessing the hotline should email brewing@jcca.co.uk or call directly on 0808 1410013. The JC helpline will operate between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday (excluding statutory holidays) and TBAS members are entitled to 30 minutes free advice. 

Image: Adam Hardie, Head of Food & Drink at Johnston Carmichael, Steve Stewart, founder of Stewart Brewing, Stephen McGowan, Partner - Head of Licensing (Scotland) at TLT LLP and  Caroline Wengel, Business Development Manager at TBAS,