The UK could run out of booze before Christmas

There are calls for the UK Government to take action. Photo / Getty

There are concerns that stores in the United Kingdom may run out of wine and liquor in the lead up to Christmas due to supply chain "chaos" and rising prices.

The UK Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WTSA) issued a warning to the UK Transport Secretary last week, with delivery driver shortages the main issue.

"This is an urgent issue for our businesses, and it is imperative that [the UK] Government takes immediate steps to help mitigate the impact of the driver shortages crisis before the Christmas period," the letter stated.

It was signed by 48 members of the industry association, CNN Business reported, and comes as freight costs have increased by about 7 per cent.

The WTSA also said it is taking up to five times longer to import products than a year ago.

The UK Government has been asked to extend a temporary visa program, due to expire on February 28 next year, which allows drivers from overseas to help make up for shortfalls over the longer term.

"There is mounting concern amongst our membership that unless urgent action is taken, we will fall deeper into delivery chaos," WSTA chief executive Miles Beale said.

"We are already seeing major delays on wine and spirit delivery times which is pushing up costs and limiting the range of products available to UK consumers."

There are also calls for the government to help ease congested freight routes from ports.

The alcohol industry is one of the latest in an extensive list of sectors to warn of Christmas shortages due to supply chain issues.

Concerns have already been raised about the deliveries of items such as toys, trees and turkeys.