Alko (state alcohol monopoly)
Finland's state-owned alcohol retail monopoly, the only store selling beverages over 8% ABV.
The Finnish state-owned alcohol retail monopoly, exclusively selling beverages with an alcohol content above 8% ABV (and spirit-based drinks above 5.5%).
What it means
Alko is the government-owned company that holds a monopoly on the retail sale of alcoholic beverages containing more than 8% alcohol by volume (and spirit-based drinks above 5.5%) in Finland. This means spirits and strong wines and beers can only be purchased from Alko stores - you will not find them in supermarkets. Alko operates approximately 360 stores across Finland. Regular grocery stores and supermarkets sell fermented drinks (beer, wine, cider) up to 8% ABV and spirit-based drinks (long drinks) up to 5.5% ABV. The monopoly exists as a public health measure to control alcohol consumption. Alko stores typically have knowledgeable staff and a wide selection of wines and spirits from around the world.
Why it matters for internationals
The Alko system surprises many newcomers who are used to buying wine and spirits at supermarkets. Alko stores have limited opening hours compared to supermarkets - typically closing at 20:00 on weekdays and 18:00 on Saturdays, with most locations closed on Sundays. Planning ahead for weekends and holidays is important. Prices include heavy excise duties, making alcohol significantly more expensive than in most countries. Many residents supplement their purchases with tax-free shopping on Baltic ferries.
Key details
- What Alko sells: Spirits, strong wines and beers, and other beverages above 8% ABV (spirit-based drinks above 5.5%)
- Supermarket limit: Grocery stores can sell fermented drinks (beer, wine, cider) up to 8% ABV and spirit-based drinks (long drinks) up to 5.5% ABV (since 10 June 2024)
- Opening hours: Typically Mon-Fri 9:00-20:00, Sat 9:00-18:00, closed Sundays (hours vary by location)
- Age limit: Must be 18 to buy beverages up to 22% ABV, 20 for anything stronger; ID is frequently checked
- Online ordering: Alko.fi offers online orders with delivery to store for pickup
Related terms
- Ruokakauppa - grocery stores selling mild alcohol
- Ravintola - restaurants serving alcohol on premises
- Arvonlisavero - VAT included in alcohol prices