In today’s high-tech world, more and more consumers turn to the internet to fulfil their shopping needs. In recent years, global retail has become increasingly reliant on eCommerce, which was expected to total 5.717 trillion USD in 2022. As more consumers spend time on the internet, the retail industry has undergone substantial changes.
Because modern life is increasingly digitised, consumers worldwide enjoy the benefits of online shopping. From groceries to much-needed home appliances to car parts to entire wardrobes, consumers purchase what they need online at their convenience. With the popularity of online shopping continuing to soar, it makes sense that there is an increasing demand for online alcohol sales.
At Leon Slotow Associates, we provide all the information you need to sell alcohol in South Africa the right way. As South Africa’s premier liquor licence consultants, we are here to share everything you need to know about how to ensure that you are selling liquor online legally and responsibly.
What Do Online Alcohol Sales Mean For Your Liquor Licence?
Typically, liquor licences depend on two major factors: a responsible person and a premises. As an online liquor store, it’s important to comply with the relevant liquor legislation. Strict regulations are in place requiring a liquor licence holder to issue invoices containing all of the necessary information and keep records.
A liquor licence must be obtained for online liquor sales just as a physical liquor store would. Only liquor stores are permitted to sell and deliver liquor to the public, so it is essential that a liquor licence be obtained. Even though alcohol sales will take place online, a liquor store premises must be established and an application submitted to the liquor board, liquor officer and local authority.
Important Information About Sales And Invoices
When liquor is being sold for consumption somewhere other than the premises, a liquor licence holder is expected to keep detailed records of each sale. Records can be physical or electronic and must contain specific information about each sale, including:
The liquor licence holder’s name and address
The licence holder’s liquor licence number
Full details (including name and address) of the person ordering and the address where it is to be delivered
Invoice numbers as well as the date they were issued
The type of liquor sold
The quantity of liquor sold
The purchase price of the liquor paid by the customer
When selling online via a website or an app, the same records must be kept. It is important for the holder of the liquor licence to continue keeping copies of all invoices at its licenced premises for at least three years. Invoices must contain details including the following:
At Leon Slotow Associates, we are your go-to liquor licence consultants, providing the guidance and assistance you need to obtain and renew annually a liquor licence in Johannesburg for online sales. If you’re looking for a reliable liquor licence lawyer to help you, Leon Slotow Associates is here to consult and guide you through the process. To find out more, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
