ABT Feb 15, 2026 | Read Time: 4 minutes

Private Equity Across Tiers in Florida: How to Invest Without Blowing up the Three Tier System

By Trevor Brewer

Florida’s alcoholic beverage laws make it hard for private equity (PE) investors to “own a little bit of everything” across suppliers, distributors, and retailers. Florida is a three-tier state, and the point of the system is separation: manufacturers sell to distributors, distributors sell to vendors, and vendors buy only from distributors. The Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco...

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Florida Beverage Law Dec 28, 2025 | Read Time: 2 minutes

THE FLORIDA BREWERIES REPORT – OCTOBER 2025

By Trevor Brewer

The Data: The Florida Breweries Report reflects data published by the Florida ABT, which is available online here, as of the date of publication. The ABT monthly publishes the taxpaid sales for each brewery and distributor. Unfortunately, the ABT does not publish breweries’ sales to distributors. This means that the Florida Breweries Report reflects only breweries’ taxpaid sales, which are generally made...

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Compliance Sep 30, 2025 | Read Time: 4 minutes

Complimentary Alcohol for Customers in Florida: A Legal Guide for Non‑Alcohol Businesses

By Trevor Brewer

Florida salons, galleries, boutiques, professional offices, and even auto dealerships often ask if they can offer a glass of beer, wine, or bubbly as a courtesy to customers. The short answer: Yes—if it’s truly complimentary and handled carefully. Below is a practical roadmap grounded in Florida law, with concrete do’s and don’ts to keep your hospitality legal and low‑risk....

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Distilleries Sep 14, 2025 | Read Time: 4 minutes

What “Distilling, Rectifying, or Blending” Means Under § 565.03—and Why It Determines What Florida Craft Distilleries Can Sell

By Trevor Brewer

Florida’s craft distilleries’ identity depends on three manufacturing activities. Section 565.03 of the Florida Statutes repeatedly uses “distilling, rectifying, or blending” to define (1) what a branded product is, (2) who qualifies as a craft distillery, and (3) what a craft distillery may sell to consumers from its gift shop or tasting room. Understanding these terms is essential for...

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