Get your business
Get your business
AWRS
approved!
approved!
Draft started
Application Submitted
Fit and Proper Test
Under Review
Registration Complete
If you're looking to sell alcohol to other business in the UK, you need to be regustered under AWRS with HMRC!
If you're looking to sell alcohol to other business in the UK, you need to be regustered under AWRS with HMRC!
Fast
Affordable
100% compliant
Don't worry - at Barnab, we make the process simple, fast, and hassle-free.
Don't worry - at Barnab, we make the process simple, fast, and hassle-free.
About
Do you want to sell alcohol to other businesses in the UK?
You need approval under the Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme (AWRS) from HMRC.
Can you tell me the name of your business?
Smiths Import UK
Perfect.
Where is your primary place of business?
90 Bridge St, Portsmouth, Unite...
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About AWRS
What is the
AWRS?
What is the AWRS?
What is the
AWRS?
If you sell or arrange to sell alcohol to other businesses in the UK, you must be registered under the Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme (AWRS). This applies whether you're a distributor, importer, online seller, or even a retailer supplying alcohol to events or venues.
If you sell or arrange to sell alcohol to other businesses in the UK, you must be registered under the Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme (AWRS). This applies whether you're a distributor, importer, online seller, or even a retailer supplying alcohol to events or venues.
You need AWRS if:
You need AWRS if:
You sell alcohol to other businesses
You run a drinks wholesale, B2B supply chain
You sell alcohol to events, shops, or caterers
Simple as That
Let us guide you
Step-by-Step: how your AWRS application works with Barnab
Chat, Not Forms
Your Draft, Done Right
Business-Friendly
AWRS Application
Key Information
Here’s what you need to know about the whole process
Key Information
Approval time
45 days
Time to prepare documents
1-2 days
Barnab fee
£500 + VAT
What do you need to provide?
To be registered under AWRS, HMRC needs to confirm your legitimacy as a wholesaler. We’ll help you draft the following documents:
Requirements
Business Information
Company structure, VAT number (if registered), UTR, trading address, and contact details.
Owner/Director Details
Names, addresses, dates of birth, NI numbers, proof of ID, and business experience.
Business Plan & Supplier Records
Customer letters of intent, supplier details and your business plan.
Due Diligence Policies
HMRC requires all wholesalers to show how they check their suppliers and customers. We provide a compliant template.
Bank Details & Premises Info
Account details used for business transactions and where goods are stored or dispatched from.
How the process works
Step by step guide to get you through the application process.
Step 1 - Answer
Get the application
form ready via chat
Instead of long confusing forms, we guide you through a simple, conversational chat.
Step 2 - Upload
Submit supporting files to complete the application
We tell you which files you need to submit and review them.
Step 3 - Apply
Generate your
application pack
We complete your AWRS application and verify you are 100% ready for submission.
We have impactful numbers
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
1500+
Customers satisfied since launch
£1M
In costs saved for the applicants
350
Councils we work with
150%
Company growth
Other like you love us
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
JS
Jennifer Smith
I had a great experience with Barnab. They took all the stress out of a process I had been dreading. Highly recommend them to anyone going through the application process.
SM
Sophie Morrison
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
TF
Tobias Farrow
I can’t recommend Barnab highly enough. Our application approved in just a few weeks, with full support and guidance throughout. Super efficient, cost-effective, and seamless.
PM
Paolo M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Something’s not clear? You will find an answer below!
FAQ
Who needs to register for AWRS?
Anyone selling or arranging the sale of alcohol to other businesses in the UK, including importers, cash-and-carry businesses, distributors, online platforms, and retailers supplying alcohol to events or venues.
What happens if I trade without AWRS approval?
Trading without AWRS approval is a criminal and civil offence. HMRC can seize your alcohol stock, impose financial penalties, and prosecute. Trade buyers who purchase from unapproved wholesalers also face penalties, stock seizure, and potential loss of their retail alcohol licence.
How long does the process take?
You must apply at least 45 calendar days before you intend to start trading. HMRC will process your application and conduct a fit and proper test during this period. With Barnab, document preparation takes 1–2 days, after which HMRC typically takes up to 45 days for approval.
Can I register if I haven’t started trading yet?
Yes. In fact, you must apply and receive HMRC approval before you start wholesaling alcohol. New businesses must apply at least 45 days in advance and should have a solid business plan in place for HMRC to assess fit and proper criteria.
Do I need to have a due diligence policy?
Yes. HMRC requires all alcohol wholesalers to have a documented due diligence policy showing how you verify your suppliers and customers are legitimate. Barnab provides a fully compliant due diligence policy template as part of the application service.
What if HMRC asks for more information?
Submitting the application on the HMRC website is just the first step. In the second stage, HMRC will contact you in writing, requesting additional documents about your business, forecasted sales, list of supplier, list of customers and other documents. With Barnab, your documents are prepared in advance so you're ready for any HMRC enquiry or inspection.
Do I need a premises licence or personal licence first?
AWRS registration is separate from premises licences and personal licences. You do not need either to apply for AWRS. However, if your business also sells alcohol to the public from premises, you will need a premises licence and a designated premises supervisor with a personal licence.
How do I submit the application?
AWRS applications are submitted online through the HMRC Government Gateway. You need a Government Gateway user ID, your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), and supporting documents. Barnab prepares your full application pack and guides you through the submission process.
Can my application be rejected?
Yes. HMRC can refuse your application if you fail the fit and proper test. This assesses your business viability, compliance history, director backgrounds, and whether your business plan demonstrates a legitimate wholesale operation. Proper preparation significantly reduces rejection risk.
Will HMRC visit my premises?
HMRC may conduct a pre-approval premises visit as part of the fit and proper assessment, often with just a few days' notice. They will check your business operations, stock management, record-keeping, and due diligence procedures. Barnab ensures you are fully prepared for any inspection.
What is the AWRS fit and proper test?
The fit and proper test is HMRC's assessment of whether you and your business are suitable to trade as an alcohol wholesaler. HMRC examines your business plan, financial viability, compliance history, director backgrounds, and due diligence policies. A sound application with complete documentation is essential to pass. Barnab prepares all the documentation you need to satisfy the fit and proper criteria.
What documents do I need for an AWRS application?
You need your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), VAT number (if registered), company registration number, director details including NI numbers and proof of ID, a business plan, details of your top 5 alcohol suppliers by volume, customer letters of intent, a due diligence policy, bank details, and premises information including any third-party storage arrangements. Barnab collects all of this through a simple chat and prepares your complete application pack.
Do I need AWRS to import alcohol into the UK?
Yes. If you import alcohol and sell it to other UK businesses, you must be AWRS registered. This applies whether you import directly from overseas producers or through intermediaries. You may also need to register for excise duty purposes and understand customs and warehousing obligations. Barnab can guide you through the full process.
What is an AWRS Unique Reference Number (URN)?
Your AWRS URN is issued by HMRC upon approval and must be displayed on all your wholesale alcohol invoices. Trade buyers are legally required to verify your URN using HMRC's online lookup service before purchasing from you. Without a valid URN, businesses cannot legally buy wholesale alcohol from you.
Can a group of companies apply for a single AWRS registration?
Yes. If multiple companies within the same corporate group make wholesale alcohol sales, they can apply for group AWRS approval. One company is nominated as the representative to deal with HMRC, and the group receives a single URN. Wholesale sales between group members are excluded from the scheme.
Choose plan
AWRS Application
If you wish to sell alcohol to other businesses as a wholesaler, this registration is right for you.
Personal Licence Application
If you are looking to be responsible for alcohol sales in a business.
Personal & Premises Licence Application
For business owners who need to sell alcohol. We handle your personal and premises licence applications.
Total
£500
+ VAT
No complicated forms
100% accurate and hassle-free
Would you like to speak to us?
Choose a time, and we will give you a callback for a free 10-minute consultation!
AWRS Application
Key Information
Here’s what you need to know about the whole process
Key Information
Approval time
45 days
Time to prepare documents
1-2 days
Barnab fee
£500 + VAT
What do you need to provide?
To be registered under AWRS, HMRC needs to confirm your legitimacy as a wholesaler. We’ll help you draft the following documents:
Requirements
Business Information
Company structure, VAT number (if registered), UTR, trading address, and contact details.
Owner/Director Details
Names, addresses, dates of birth, NI numbers, proof of ID, and business experience.
Business Plan & Supplier Records
Customer letters of intent, supplier details and your business plan.
Due Diligence Policies
HMRC requires all wholesalers to show how they check their suppliers and customers. We provide a compliant template.
Bank Details & Premises Info
Account details used for business transactions and where goods are stored or dispatched from.
How the process works
Step by step guide to get you through the application process.
Step 1 - Answer
Get the application
form ready via chat
Instead of long confusing forms, we guide you through a simple, conversational chat.
Step 2 - Upload
Submit supporting files to complete the application
We tell you which files you need to submit and review them.
Step 3 - Apply
Generate your
application pack
We complete your AWRS application and verify you are 100% ready for submission.
We have impactful numbers
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
1500+
Customers satisfied since launch
£1M
In costs saved for the applicants
350
Councils we work with
150%
Company growth
Other like you love us
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
JS
Jennifer Smith
I had a great experience with Barnab. They took all the stress out of a process I had been dreading. Highly recommend them to anyone going through the application process.
SM
Sophie Morrison
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
TF
Tobias Farrow
I can’t recommend Barnab highly enough. Our application approved in just a few weeks, with full support and guidance throughout. Super efficient, cost-effective, and seamless.
PM
Paolo M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Something’s not clear? You will find an answer below!
FAQ
Who needs to register for AWRS?
Anyone selling or arranging the sale of alcohol to other businesses in the UK, including importers, cash-and-carry businesses, distributors, online platforms, and retailers supplying alcohol to events or venues.
What happens if I trade without AWRS approval?
Trading without AWRS approval is a criminal and civil offence. HMRC can seize your alcohol stock, impose financial penalties, and prosecute. Trade buyers who purchase from unapproved wholesalers also face penalties, stock seizure, and potential loss of their retail alcohol licence.
How long does the process take?
You must apply at least 45 calendar days before you intend to start trading. HMRC will process your application and conduct a fit and proper test during this period. With Barnab, document preparation takes 1–2 days, after which HMRC typically takes up to 45 days for approval.
Can I register if I haven’t started trading yet?
Yes. In fact, you must apply and receive HMRC approval before you start wholesaling alcohol. New businesses must apply at least 45 days in advance and should have a solid business plan in place for HMRC to assess fit and proper criteria.
Do I need to have a due diligence policy?
Yes. HMRC requires all alcohol wholesalers to have a documented due diligence policy showing how you verify your suppliers and customers are legitimate. Barnab provides a fully compliant due diligence policy template as part of the application service.
What if HMRC asks for more information?
Submitting the application on the HMRC website is just the first step. In the second stage, HMRC will contact you in writing, requesting additional documents about your business, forecasted sales, list of supplier, list of customers and other documents. With Barnab, your documents are prepared in advance so you're ready for any HMRC enquiry or inspection.
Do I need a premises licence or personal licence first?
AWRS registration is separate from premises licences and personal licences. You do not need either to apply for AWRS. However, if your business also sells alcohol to the public from premises, you will need a premises licence and a designated premises supervisor with a personal licence.
How do I submit the application?
AWRS applications are submitted online through the HMRC Government Gateway. You need a Government Gateway user ID, your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), and supporting documents. Barnab prepares your full application pack and guides you through the submission process.
Can my application be rejected?
Yes. HMRC can refuse your application if you fail the fit and proper test. This assesses your business viability, compliance history, director backgrounds, and whether your business plan demonstrates a legitimate wholesale operation. Proper preparation significantly reduces rejection risk.
Will HMRC visit my premises?
HMRC may conduct a pre-approval premises visit as part of the fit and proper assessment, often with just a few days' notice. They will check your business operations, stock management, record-keeping, and due diligence procedures. Barnab ensures you are fully prepared for any inspection.
What is the AWRS fit and proper test?
The fit and proper test is HMRC's assessment of whether you and your business are suitable to trade as an alcohol wholesaler. HMRC examines your business plan, financial viability, compliance history, director backgrounds, and due diligence policies. A sound application with complete documentation is essential to pass. Barnab prepares all the documentation you need to satisfy the fit and proper criteria.
What documents do I need for an AWRS application?
You need your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), VAT number (if registered), company registration number, director details including NI numbers and proof of ID, a business plan, details of your top 5 alcohol suppliers by volume, customer letters of intent, a due diligence policy, bank details, and premises information including any third-party storage arrangements. Barnab collects all of this through a simple chat and prepares your complete application pack.
Do I need AWRS to import alcohol into the UK?
Yes. If you import alcohol and sell it to other UK businesses, you must be AWRS registered. This applies whether you import directly from overseas producers or through intermediaries. You may also need to register for excise duty purposes and understand customs and warehousing obligations. Barnab can guide you through the full process.
What is an AWRS Unique Reference Number (URN)?
Your AWRS URN is issued by HMRC upon approval and must be displayed on all your wholesale alcohol invoices. Trade buyers are legally required to verify your URN using HMRC's online lookup service before purchasing from you. Without a valid URN, businesses cannot legally buy wholesale alcohol from you.
Can a group of companies apply for a single AWRS registration?
Yes. If multiple companies within the same corporate group make wholesale alcohol sales, they can apply for group AWRS approval. One company is nominated as the representative to deal with HMRC, and the group receives a single URN. Wholesale sales between group members are excluded from the scheme.
Choose plan
AWRS Application
If you wish to sell alcohol to other businesses as a wholesaler, this registration is right for you.
Personal Licence Application
If you are looking to be responsible for alcohol sales in a business.
Personal & Premises Licence Application
For business owners who need to sell alcohol. We handle your personal and premises licence applications.
Total
£500
+ VAT
Would you like to speak to us?
Choose a time, and we will give you a callback for a free 10-minute consultation!
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Check all our services
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Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz
Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz
Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz