Beer rules for 2026 that UK drinkers may want to know about | UK | News

A raft of changes will come into force in 2026 after Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed prices will rise.

Ms Reeves confirmed in the November Budget that alcohol duty would rise in line with inflation rates from February.

Typically, these increases are in line with the Retail Price Index in September, which was 4.5% this year.

The alcohol tax regulation will come into force on February 1 using the RPI rate.

Just before the Budget, a leading brewery has announced that the alcohol content of one of its leading brewers will also be reduced from February. Mirror.

Heineken UK will benefit from tax cuts on lower alcohol drinks by reducing the alcohol content (ABV) of its Foster’s beer to 3.4%.

Currently produced at 3.7%, this change also targets consumers who prefer reduced ABV options for wellness reasons.

A representative from Heineken UK said: “The decision to adjust the ABV of Foster’s reflects our commitment to helping consumers make responsible choices, while supporting pubs and retailers with a portfolio of brands across the price and ABV spectrum, as well as competitively priced classic beer.

“Our master brewers spent months developing the recipe to ensure the taste remained crisp, balanced and refreshing, distinctly Foster.”

The rep added that the reformulated Foster’s has undergone “extensive consumer testing” and “delivers the same great taste and experience.” Earlier this year, Heineken also reduced the ABV of its Mexican beer brand Sol to 3.4%.

The current duty payable per liter of alcohol is set at £9.61 for 1.3-3.4%. This figure rises to £21.01 per liter for beers with an ABV of 3.5-8.4%.

This fee is charged per liter of alcohol, not per liter of product.