Can someone who already is importing wine from Italy into New york, distribute the wine to stores or resturants in Florida?
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
From your description, it appears the NY company has a federal permit to import alcoholic beverages. Do they also have a NY wholesaler's license? It is quite common for a NY entity to hold both as it provides several advantages, notably direct access to the market for their import portfolio and either lower prices or a larger margin. In terms of selling in another state such as FL, the NY company could sell the wine to a licensed FL wholesaler, who in turn would be able to distribute to FL stores and restaurants. Or, the NY company could set up their own operation in FL and obtain the required state wholesaler's permit.
