312.583.9430
Brewery Law Attorney in Illinois and New York
Craft breweries are common throughout every jurisdiction in the United States. Small towns throughout the U.S. have microbreweries and craft breweries serving some of the most unique beer in the country. However, opening and maintaining a craft brewery takes hard work and dedication. Bielski Chapman, Ltd. can help you with many different legal issues that may arise if you own and operate a brewery in Illinois or New York.
Alternating Proprietorship Agreements
More than one person may use the real property on which a brewery sits. Alternating proprietorship agreements allow parties to share commercial space and benefit from a pool of customers. A tenant will lease equipment, space, and employees from another party so long as the tenant files specific documents with the U.S. Department of Treasury, Alcohol and Tobacco, Tax, and Trade Bureau.
Business owners, employees, and customers can all benefit from alternating proprietorship agreements. Breweries do not have to waste resources or space as they expand and develop more effective marketing techniques. If your brewery business is expanding, now is the time to learn more about the benefits of alternating proprietorship agreements.
Contract Brewing Agreements
Contract brewing agreements are commercial relationships whereby one party, such as a retailer or wholesaler, pays compensation to a contract brewer for manufacturing beer. If you have extra capacity, you can enter into contract brewing agreements with other breweries. Essentially, you will produce the beer, and the contract brewer will market, distribute, and sell the final product. By using contract brewing agreements, breweries can expand their target markets and increase revenue while producing excellent craft beer.
Contract law is one of the most important aspects of brewery law in the States of Illinois and New York. Employment contracts, distribution contracts, and lease agreements may all be relevant to your business. You need to understand the importance of drafting coherent contracts so you can protect yourself from potential liabilities.
Licensing Agreements
Contracts are essential for a brewery to become efficient and successful. Licensing agreements are typically related to intellectual property, which encompasses copyright law, trademark law, and patent law. Also, employment contracts will also play a big role in how a craft brewery operates on a daily basis.
You will also need to acquire a license to manufacture, distribute, and sell alcohol in the State of Illinois. Public Act 102-0442 amended the Liquor Control Act of 1934. Some important changes include the new brewer category, the Class 3 Brewer. The Class 3 Brewer license permits the tap room sales of beer, wine, and spirits. Also, wholesalers can now sell beer directly to customers at festivals and other events. Those who own distilleries, wineries, and breweries can retain their self-distribution privileges when they manufacture other products.
Licensing agreements are also relevant in matters involving trademarks, copyrights, and patents. If you develop your craft brewery, then you need to be conscious of growing your brand and maintaining a commercial identity. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand how intellectual property law is important to your business.
Connect with a Brewery Law Attorney
If you own a brewery and have questions about contracts, licensing or any questions in between, feel free to call us at (312) 583-9430 or contact us here for a free consultation today!