Alcoholic Beverage Distributors and Wholesalers

Become an alcoholic beverage distributor to wholesale alcohol As a distributor, you get to find new products, promote products and work with large established companies. The three-tier system ensures your job security. You do need to be prepared for competition from larger companies, but a unique line helps you enter the industry successfully.

I recommend:  Fill out IRS Form SS-4 to get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) before you apply for permits, licenses or applications. Once you have your EIN, visit the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau's (TTB) website to get the required forms, permits and applications for becoming a distributor.

Locate alcohol distributors actively seeking to sell and buy wholesale liquor Many distributors join trade associations and post specific requests on the association's website. Reviewing the posts narrows your target search to distributors in need of your product. The posts also indicate producers looking for distributors.

I recommend:  The International Beverage Network's Call to Tenders provides posts from companies seeking suppliers. World Marketplace offers new products and complete descriptions from companies seeking distributors.

Join a trade association to boost business Trade associations connect producers, importers, distributors and other professionals in the alcohol industry. With a trade association, you boost business by marketing to the people most interested in your profession. Trade associations keep members up-to-date on changes to the industry, especially legal changes.

I recommend:  Register your company with the International Beverage Network (IBN), one of the world's largest networks for alcoholic beverages, or join National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA). You can find information on existing members by visiting IBN's World Directory. NBWA's Directory lists associations by state.