A Responsible Industry
We would like people to enjoy drinking Scotch Whisky, but it is important they do so responsibly. We want to be recognised as an industry leader in the promotion of responsible drinking and in our constructive engagement with national and international authorities to help reduce harmful drinking.
Responsible Drinking
Like any other form of alcohol, Scotch Whisky should be consumed in moderation. When consumed responsibly by adults, alcohol can be part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle and play a positive role in social occasions and celebrations.
CAP and the Scotch Whisky Action Fund
Since 2013 the SWA has funded the delivery of projects to tackle alcohol-related harm in Scotland, as an extension of our commitment to address harmful use of alcohol and promote responsible drinking.
Responsible Marketing
The Scotch Whisky industry takes very seriously its commitment to marketing its products to consumers in a responsible way. The industry has developed a Code of Practice setting out minimum standards for the marketing and promotion of Scotch Whisky brands in the UK and abroad.
Made to be Measured
Learn more about how Scotch Whisky is made to be measured, sipped and savoured responsibly.
news & commentary
SWA publishes 6th Edition of Responsible Marketing and Promotion Code of Practice
The SWA has published the 6th edition of its Code of Practice for the Responsible Marketing and Promotion of Scotch Whisky.
Scotch Whisky industry underpins its commitment to responsible marketing
Four new members appointed to Independent Complaints Panel
We are recruiting: Head of Trade - Asia Pacific
The SWA is seeking a Head of Trade - Asia Pacific to join our International and Global Regulatory Affairs team
Scotch Whisky industry launches second year of responsible consumption campaign
We are recruiting: Deputy Director, International and Global Regulatory Affairs
The SWA is seeking a Deputy Director to join our International and Global Regulatory Affairs teams
New Funding Announced to Tackle Underage Drinking in Scotland
A new targeted intervention worth £300,000 has been announced by the SWA and Community Alcohol Partnerships.
Seven Projects Throughout Scotland Awarded Funding Totalling £100k To Help Tackle Alcohol Harm
Seven projects from across Scotland have been awarded a total of £100,000 in funding by the Scotch Whisky Action Fund (SWAF)
Scottish Government to Support ‘Made to be Measured’ Campaign
Partnership working across key areas discussed in meeting between First Minister and industry leaders.
SWA comments on First Minister statement on DRS and alcohol marketing
The alcohol marketing consultation will be taken "back to the drawing board" and Deposit Return Scheme delayed until March 2024
publications
Code of Practice: 5th Edition
The Code of Practice covers all commercial communications by members. This includes advertising, promotional materials and sponsorship. The 5th edition was published in November 2022.
Code of Practice: 5th Edition
The Code of Practice covers all commercial communications by members. This includes advertising, promotional materials and sponsorship. The 5th edition was published in the autumn of 2022.
Scotch Whisky Action Fund: Bright Light Report
Find out more about projects the Scotch Whisky Action Fund helped to support.
Scotch Whisky Action Fund: 5 year Impact Report
Read more about the Scotch Whisky Action Fund's first five years.
Matured to be Enjoyed Responsibly - latest edition (July 2020)
This latest report is a snapshot of the activities being undertaken by the SWA and member companies to promote responsible consumption of alcohol, and supporting initiatives to tackle misuse.
pages
2024 UK General Election
Learn more about the Scotch Whisky Association's manifesto for the 2024 general election, and how candidates can pledge to #SupportScotch in three key areas.