This report is the final report from the PHS evaluation of minimum unit pricing for alcohol in Scotland. It brings together the evidence produced by the studies in the PHS evaluation portfolio, plus other published studies, to describe the impact of MUP in Scotland.

Evidence shows that MUP has had a positive impact on health outcomes, including addressing alcohol-related health inequalities. It has reduced deaths directly caused by alcohol consumption by an estimated 13.4% and hospital admissions by 4.1%, with the largest reductions seen in men and those living in the 40% most deprived areas.

MUP led to a 3% reduction in alcohol consumption at a population level, as measured by retail sales. The reduction was particularly driven by sales of cider and spirits through the off-trade (supermarkets and shops) products that increased the most in price. Evidence from a range of data sources shows that the greatest reductions were amongst those households purchasing the most alcohol, with little impact on households purchasing at lower levels.

For those people with alcohol dependence there was limited evidence of any reduction in consumption and there is some evidence of consequences for those with established alcohol dependence on low incomes, that led them to prioritise spending on alcohol over food. At a population level there is no clear evidence of substantial negative impacts on social harms such as alcohol-related crime or illicit drug use.

The evaluation report shows that while the impact on alcoholic drink producers and retailers varied depending on the mix of products made or sold, there is no clear evidence of substantial negative impacts on the alcoholic drinks industry in Scotland as a whole.

Five considerations for the future of MUP:

1. The level at which MUP is set should take into account the balance of benefits and risks. Increasing the level could increase the positive impact on alcohol consumption and related harms but may also increase any harmful consequences.
2. People with alcohol dependence still need timely and high-quality treatment and wider support. MUP alone is not enough.
3. Consideration needs to be given on how best to monitor the needs and provide services for those on low incomes with alcohol dependence to minimise the negative impacts of MUP.
4. There is no evidence to suggest that MUP reduced underage drinking. Other evidence-based approaches should be considered to reach drinkers in this group.
5. The impact of new policies on the MUP pricing structure should be
   considered.