Law Offices of John P. Connell, P.C.: There are an estimated 2,750 breweries in the United States, 50 of which are located in Massachusetts. With the recent craft-brewery movement and the increasing number of contract brewing relationships in the industry, it is important for brewers to make their beer readily distinguishable in order to stand out in the market. Good Continue Reading...
Tag Archives: Brewer
Law Offices of John P. Connell, P.C.: In Massachusetts, a brewer producing beer for mere personal or family use, and not for sale, does not need any license to do so. Should the brewer intend to brew and sell its beer commercially however, licenses are needed at both the national level, through the Alcoholic and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau Continue Reading...
Law Offices of John P. Connell, P.C.: Under Massachusetts law, G.L. c. 138, sec. 25E, a brewer, winery or distillery cannot terminate a Massachusetts wholesaler that has carried and distributed that manufacturer’s brand absent “good cause,” which can be difficult to prove. (See our related Article “Legal Issues Involved When Alcoholic Beverage Suppliers Attempt to Terminate Brand Shipments to Wholesalers Continue Reading...
Law Offices of John P. Connell, P.C.: In the business of distributing of alcoholic beverages, branding means everything. Manufacturers such as wineries, distilleries and breweries spend a great deal of money every year acquiring, maintaining and protecting their brand labels. Their labels are the only thing that differentiates them from competition, as products are sold in almost universally undistinguishable containers Continue Reading...
Law offices of John P. Connell, P.C.: The Coastal Wine Trail of South Eastern New England, comprised of nine wineries located along the New England coastline, has been celebrating the beginning of wine season by hosting an annual kick-off event. Each year, one of the nine wineries host the event and is able to showcase and sell their wine, while Continue Reading...