What is the rule for spacing between words and the character &?

Question

What is the rule for spacing between words and the character &? For example, do I have to space Espresso&Tonic - Espresso & Tonic, although I am talking about one drink made with an espresso and tonic? Thanks

Answer 1

If the two subjects in question are separate words or acronyms, then spacing on either end of the ampersand is required.

Examples:

HTML & CSS, an article by the World Wide Web Consortium.

Smith & Wesson

Dolce & Gabbana

Tiffany & Co.

Therefore, Espresso&Tonic is not appropriate. The correct version would be Espresso & Tonic.

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However, if the two elements are acronyms and they themselves form an acronym when used with the ampersand, then no spacing is allowed on either end of the symbol.

Examples:

AT&T

H&M

A&E