With less than a month to go until the World Cup begins, pubs across Scotland are preparing to welcome fans for what will be Scotland’s first World Cup finals appearance in 28 years.
To support licensees ahead of the tournament, the Scottish Beer and Pub Association has published operational guidance for venues planning to show matches this summer. The guidance is designed to help pubs deliver a safe, well-run and enjoyable experience for customers during a competition that runs from 11th June to 19th July 2026.
The document brings together practical advice for publicans on key areas such as licensing, staffing, managing busy services, and creating safe environments for customers, with an emphasis on early planning and close local coordination. It also includes a breakdown of the local licensing decisions by respective licensing boards across the country.
Produced by the Scottish Beer & Pub Association in partnership with Police Scotland, the guidance encourages licensing authorities, the licensed trade and the police to work together to ensure a safe and successful tournament. It is also supported by Best Bar None Scotland, BII Scotland, Scottish Alcohol Industry Partnership, Institute of Licensing, Night-time Industries Association, Scottish Licensed Trade Association, UK Hospitality Scotland and Scottish Hospitality Group.
Access the guidance here.