Plan Now for Consumer Sales

Effective June 14, 2013, Texas breweries were authorized, for the first time ever, to sell their products to consumers by-the-glass for consumption at the brewery.  As of September 1st, Texas distilleries will not only be authorized to sell their products to customers for consumption at the distillery, but will also be able to sell commemorative bottles for off-premises consumption.Before beginning consumer sales, be sure to contact your local zoning authorities to confirm that such sales are allowed at your location. Many production facilities are not zoned for retail sales and will need to be re-zoned.Also, be sure to check with your local health department to determine whether you need a different or additional health permit. Many local health authorities do not issue a license to food and beverage manufacturers, but do issue a license to establishments that sell food and beverages for consumption on the premises.Brewers will be required to amend their Brewer’s Notices with the TTB to identify the area designated as their tavern and notify the TTB of the method for tax determination that will be utilized for beer and ale sold for consumption at the brewer.Distilleries must also report the taxpaid tasting room to TTB, if such an area has not already been designated. Retail sales cannot take place in a bonded area of a distillery.We at Jack Martin & Associates will be happy to help you navigate these requirements to get you ready to take advantage of this new business opportunity. Don’t hesitate to call us at (512) 473-0300.