Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "wine wholesale distributor"?
A wine wholesale distributor ("wholesaler" or "distributor" ) is a company that is licensed to sell wine to licensed wine retailers. The wholesaler employees sales, delivery, warehouse and admininstrative personnel in order to effectively operate the business.What is required to become a wine wholesale distributor?
All wine wholesale distributors must first apply for and obtain a Basic Permit from the Department of Treasury - Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. This process takes approximately 3-6 months and requires a background investigation.Additionally, most states will require a state-issued "wholesale alcohol" license. This process may take an additional 1-3 months. However, some states will allow the applicant to apply for the federal and state licenses concurrently.
What is a "wine retailer"?
A wine retailer is any business that sells wine to consumers. Examples are: restaurants, wine shops, supermarkets, cruise ships, military bases or any business with a retail alcohol license.How does BBFC source its wines?
BBFC's procurement staff develops and maintains strong relationships with wine suppliers throughout the world. The staff is responsible for communicating and visiting with the wine suppliers so as to ensure quality, value and consistent products for all BBFC franchisees.How do I get more information on your franchise opportunity?
Please fill out and submit the franchise application to BBFC. We will not disclose any further information other than what is found on our website unless we receive an application and qualify you as a potential franchisee.What are the "estimated" or "forecasted" sales for a BBFC franchise?
BBFC cannot and will not guarantee any sales figures, estimations or forecasts for any BBFC franchise. BBFC will do its best effort to support and advise the franchisee, as outlined in our Unified Franchise Offering Circular, Franchise Agreement and Operations Manual.Will the BBFC franchise concept work in all US states?
No. Due to varying state alcohol distribution laws, the BBFC wine wholesale distribution franchise concept may not be available in all US states. Please see the map of compatible states.However, BBFC may be able to modify its franchise concept for states that are not fully compatible.
Is the BBFC franchise available outside of the US?
Yes.What is the difference between a "control" state and a "license" state?
A control state is a US state that operates or controls one or more aspects of alcohol distribution within the state.For example, VA is a control state because spirits are only sold in state-owned liquor stores. However, wine and beer may be purchased at wine retailers statewide. PA is also a control state because the state controls the wholesale distribution of all alcohol to retailers statewide.
A license state is a US state that allows an individual or company to operate or control any aspect of alcohol distribution within the state.
For example, the State of CA does not operate or control any aspect of alcohol distribution. Individuals or companies are responsible for all aspects of alcohol distribution.
However, all states are responsible for issuing all required licenses/permits to individuals or companies that distribute or sell alcohol within the state.
© 2007 Borvin Beverage Franchise Corporation
1022 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 683-9463 | Fax: (703) 836-6654 | Email: info@borvinbeverage.com