Scottish Premiership club granted permanent alcohol licence as 'significant milestone' hit

The Premiership club at Pittodrie had two last campaign and their licence has now been granted for the Richard Donald Stand Lower concourse area. Supporters will be able to buy alcohol until 30 minutes before kick-off but will only be able to drink in designated areas and without a sight of the pitch.

Aberdeen’s licence comes into effect for their first league match of the season against Hearts on August 1 and alcohol will only be sold for lower risk non-category CIR matches. CEO Alan Burrows: "We are pleased to have secured a permanent alcohol licence for matchdays at Pittodrie.

Why have Aberdeen got an alcohol licence?

“Supporter feedback has consistently highlighted the value of providing a more modern and flexible stadium experience. We have worked closely with the relevant authorities to ensure the necessary safeguards and operating procedures are in place.

“The club is grateful for the positive feedback from supporters about how previous alcohol licence trials had improved the matchday experience and we look forward to introducing this enhancement from our opening home league fixture against Hearts."

A club statement reads: “Aberdeen FC is pleased to confirm it has been granted a permanent alcohol licence by Aberdeen City Council for the controlled sale of alcohol at matches at Pittodrie, marking a significant milestone in the club’s ongoing efforts to enhance the supporter experience. Having successfully participated in two alcohol trials last season, a permanent licence has now been granted for the Richard Donald Stand Lower concourse area and will allow the sale of alcohol until 30 minutes before kick-off.

Aberdeen on an alcohol licence

“The new licence will come into effect from the club’s first Scottish Premiership home match of the season against Hearts on Saturday 1st August, allowing eligible supporters to purchase and enjoy alcoholic beverages before the match. Previous initiatives at Pittodrie demonstrated a managed approach to alcohol sales can support a positive and safe matchday experience, with the Club committed to delivering a responsible and enjoyable environment for all supporters attending matches at Pittodrie.

“In addition to the introduction of the permanent alcohol licence, Aberdeen FC will continue to explore opportunities to enhance the matchday experience through a programme of entertainment and activations at selected fixtures throughout the season. These initiatives will include live music, fan engagement activities and family-friendly entertainment designed to create an even more vibrant atmosphere around Pittodrie on matchdays.

“Supporters will be provided with full details regarding the operation of alcohol sales, designated serving areas and stadium policies ahead of the Hearts fixture. Alcohol would only be able to be consumed within clearly designated areas and not in sight of the pitch, and all activity will be confined to clearly designated and monitored areas. Regular matchday safety protocols remain unchanged, and alcohol will only be sold at lower risk non-category CIR matches. The club would like to thank all parties for the constructive approach taken by all parties involved in reaching this positive outcome.”