A critical step in the growth of a brewery is the decision whether and when to start distributing. Some breweries engage a distributor right out the gate whereas some will remain on premises and self-distribute for life, and there is a definite trend towards the latter. It is imperative that before you enter into in […]
What is the Law? On April 4, 2016, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation enacting the NYS Paid Family Leave Act. Effective January 1, 2018, this law will officially go into effect. The Paid Family Leave Act, or “PFLA”, will give all employees in New York the right to take a leave of absence in the […]
Do you have a brewery in planning or are you thinking about starting your own brewery in New York? Congratulations! Below is a legal to do list in chronological order for you to consider as you begin the process. It is not an exhaustive list but it covers everything from trademarks, to commercial leases, to […]
Rheonix is once again hosting a free seminar for New York State brewers to learn more about the SpoilerAlert™ Assay. The assay is a molecular diagnostics test which determines the presence of beer spoilage organisms. They will even test samples live at the seminar for samples submitted by May 16. Food and beverages will be served. Date: […]
Almost everyone who gets involved in the brewing industry dreams of growing their business and their brand. However, with growth come additional risk that need to be managed. Below are some items to address with your insurance broker if you are in the process of growing or changing aspects of your operations; Increasing property coverage […]
While by trade I’m a lawyer and most of my articles for the New York State Brewers Association relate to legal issues for craft brewers, from time to time I like to just write about aspects of the craft beer industry I love. Well over two years ago I wrote an article for the New […]
From Paul Gatza Here is where we are: –FDA enforcement in chain restaurants and similar retail food establishments starts in May. –The Brewers Association and FDA reached alignment in January that FDA would like to have brand-specific values for calories and carbohydrates. The nine lesser nutrients (total fat, calories from fat, saturated fat, trans fat, […]
When a customer walks into a store looking for beer, how do they decide what they want? If they don’t already have a specific beer in mind what triggers their senses to pick up yours? Is it the beer style? The color palette? The name? The truth is that every beer drinker has their own […]
Whether you are planning to start or expand your craft brewery, your first step is to develop a sound business plan. Indeed, any business project that requires a considerable financial investment and is expected to return a profit should generate a business plan before a single dime is spent. Why? Because the business plan is […]
Understanding the U.S. market for alcohol beverages, including beer, requires an understanding of the three-tier system. Whether viewed with deep reverence or great scorn, it is a system of distribution that delivers the vast majority of beer to the mouths of thirsty American drinkers. Let’s take a few moments to understand that system a little […]