USA Trade Tasting and ShipCompliant have teamed up to educate international suppliers and US-based import companies. Really Get Into the Detail 

One of the top reasons COLAs get rejected is because the Government Warning is not in the correct format. Take the time to double check and ensure it looks exactly as it’s supposed to. For information about getting your samples to USA Trade Tasting and other events in the US with a COLA waiver, please visit the officialTTB website page here.  For information about getting your COLA approval for your labels, please visit the official TTB website page here.

Do Some Digging

When expanding into franchise states, explore your distributor options before signing a contract. Bad distributor relationships can be very difficult to get out of.

Share Knowledge

Educate your foreign suppliers or local label designers about U.S. laws and keep a close eye on their latest labels to ensure they are compliant. The more you are on the same page, the more energy you’ll save down the road.

Embrace the Technology

Submit state registrations online with PRO (product registration online) where available. Not only will it save you time and money, but it’ll save you from some serious paperwork.

Don’t Forget the Big Apple

Your distributor must price post in New York, so be sure to send them new prices and changes regularly. The New York State Liquor Authority regularly checks this, and it’s often forgotten.

Background Checks

If you are an importer, do some research and find suppliers that have previously imported into the U.S. They’ll already be registered with the FDA, which will shorten your timeline for sales. Whether you are importing foreign products or producing domestically, keep a close eye on details. Don't forget, submitting your labels for COLA approval to the TTB in November, December, or January instead of June, July, or August reduces wait time averages by about half. The more information you come to understand about compliance and best practices in the USA, the easier it can be to get products to market faster and more smoothly, which ultimately puts them in your customer’s hands sooner. Our industry is heavily regulated, so find support where you can! Get involved with online communities like Beverage Trade Network and Beverage Alcohol Community to learn more about best practices to make sure your business rocks in 2016.

 The USA Trade Tasting Conference is designed to inspire and educate importers, distributors, and suppliers on best practices being employed in the US beverage industry.

Event Producer: Beverage Trade Network

USA Trade Tasting is brought to you by Beverage Trade Network, the leading online platform dedicated to connecting the global beverage industry. Beverage Trade Network (BTN) successfully connects wineries, breweries, distilleries and brand owners with international importers, distributors, brokers and beverage industry professionals on a daily basis. Strong partnerships with international and US organizations have helped BTN establish USA Trade Tasting as a premiere sales and marketing event committed to connecting the beverage industry.