Lindsey Zahn P.C. handles federal permits, state licenses, agreements, and restructurings for alcohol wholesalers and distributors, and provides ongoing compliance counsel. Federal and New York licensing questions go to one firm.
Wholesalers and distributors play a central role in the alcohol beverage industry and face exacting regulations of their own. Lindsey Zahn P.C. helps new wholesalers set up their business, including permits and licenses, and gives established distributors ongoing legal support through growth, new opportunities, and ownership changes.
How the Firm Helps
- Determine the right federal TTB permit for your business
- Draft and file the federal basic permit application with TTB
- Update and amend TTB permits
- Draft and file state license applications and amendments
- Advise on risks of new products, brands, channels, and partnerships
- Advise on obligations to notify supplier partners of company changes
- Review wholesale and distribution agreements
- Develop restructuring strategies for growth or sale
- Provide ongoing compliance guidance
Process and Timeline
- Plan the right structure. The firm maps your products and sales plans to the federal permit and state licenses you need.
- Federal permit. The firm prepares and files the federal basic wholesaler permit with TTB.
- State licensing. The firm prepares the state wholesale license, including New York State Liquor Authority filings for New York businesses.
- Formulas and labels. Before launch, the firm handles formulas, label review, and COLAs so products can ship on time.
Federal and state applications can often be prepared in parallel. Plan for agency review on both before your opening or launch date, and file labels and formulas once your permits are on track.
Recent Representations
- Lead outside counsel to a wholesaler through a corporate ownership change across federal and state compliance
- Negotiated a national distribution agreement for wine and distilled spirits
- Advised a wholesaler on filing and compliance with TTB’s Temporary Voluntary Disclosure Program
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do wholesalers need a federal permit?
Yes. Alcohol wholesalers generally need a federal basic permit from TTB in addition to state licenses.
Does the firm work with businesses outside New York?
Yes. TTB and FDA requirements apply nationwide, and the firm represents clients across the United States on federal matters. It handles New York State Liquor Authority filings directly and advises on other states’ rules as your distribution grows.