Practical store checklist

Off-licence takeover checklist

Tick items as you complete them. Your progress is saved on this device, so you can return to it during the handover.

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Keep this checklist on your phone home screen.On iPhone: Safari Share, then Add to Home Screen. On Android: use the browser menu.

Legal and compliance

Confirm the position with the relevant local authority or qualified adviser before you trade.

Confirm the premises licence and designated premises supervisor (DPS) position.Register the food business with the local authority at the required time.Check alcohol suppliers on HMRC's AWRS register and keep their URNs.Set up age-verification, staff training and a refusals process.Review fire safety, health and safety, CCTV and data-protection responsibilities.Arrange employers' liability insurance before any employee starts work.

Handover from the previous owner

Do these checks before completion where possible, then repeat them during the first week.

Get a written list of services, providers, account numbers, renewal dates and monthly costs.Confirm which contracts can transfer and which need a new application.Get written confirmation of cancelled, expired or unused services.Collect keys, alarm codes, EPOS logins, CCTV access, supplier portals and meter details.Check stock invoices, credit terms, delivery schedules and alcohol traceability.Test fridges, freezers, payments, EPOS, broadband, CCTV, alarms, water and waste collection.

Core operating services

Make sure each service has the right account holder, contract status and emergency support.

Record energy supplier, meter details, contract end date and opening readings.Check refrigeration service history, maintenance cover and emergency call-out details.Review card-processing rates, terminal rental, settlement timing and PCI requirements.Confirm broadband owner, router access, secure Wi-Fi and a fallback plan.Confirm trade-waste collection, recycling arrangements and bin ownership.Check CCTV settings, alarm monitoring, shutters and keyholder details.Review suitable premises, stock, public liability, interruption, equipment and cash cover.

Stock, cash and staff controls

Keep controls simple enough for all staff to use consistently.

Set a clear till, refund and cash-banking process.Limit access to cash, tobacco, high-value stock and supplier accounts.Set routine till reconciliation and discrepancy checks.Organise delivery notes, invoices, alcohol checks and traceability records.Train staff on age checks, food hygiene, incidents, refusals and emergency contacts.Review stock rotation, wastage, theft and refrigeration temperatures.

Useful Aarubi services

Use these only where they are relevant to the shop and its current contracts.

Compare business energyReview tariff and provider options before agreeing a new contract.Check an energy billCheck rates, dates and potential billing issues on an existing bill.Analyse card feesUse a monthly processing statement to estimate the full payment cost.Review commercial insuranceExplore the cover your shop may need before renewal or takeover.Explore business fundingReview eligible options for stock, refurbishment or working capital.