Training providers have reported strong trade as operators that missed the 6 August licence conversion deadline chase the extra qualification they now need.

With the passing of the deadline, businesses in England and Wales that haven’t acquired a new licence will now need to undertake a National Certificate for Personal Licence Holders (NCPLH) – regardless of what qualifications they already hold – to continue trading.

A spokeswoman from the British Institute of Innkeeping, the awarding body for the qualification, said: “There has been a huge influx of applications for our training courses, they have been coming fast and furious. We expect a lot more in the coming months.”

Course length and cost varies, but the NCPLH is likely to take at least a day and cost from £150 to £300.

Peter Fulton, regional manager for abv Training, said: "From talking to various businesses and council officials around the country I think around 25% of licensees missed the deadline. Regardless, demand for our courses has increased steadily over the past six months.”

By the start of the new licensing regime in England and Wales on 24 November all operators wishing to carry on licensable activities such as the sale of alcohol will need to hold a premises and personal licence issued by their council.

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