Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
What are the packaging, labelling, and compliance requirements for exporting canned alcoholic beverages to EU markets, particularly Spain?
Exporting canned drinks to EU markets requires several key compliance steps beyond UK requirements. **Packaging & Labelling:** - **No duty stamps required** on cans for EU export (unlike bottles) - **EU address** must be displayed on packaging - **Bespoke stickering** is needed for Spanish/Ibiza-specific requirements to clear customs - **Local language labelling** is essential (e.g., Spanish for Spain) **Ingredients & Nutritional Information:** - Ingredients lists are **not currently mandatory** for alcoholic products in EU regulations, though EU countries are moving towards making this a requirement - Members recommend **taking a proactive approach** by listing ingredients and nutritional values anyway, in the local language, to future-proof compliance and aid market acceptance **Certificates of Analysis (for spirits):** - **Brewlab** — provides ABV-only analysis certificates at £28 + VAT, with 1–5 working day turnaround - **Campden BRI lab** — alternative option, though slower (circa 2 weeks for results) - Both labs provide the certificates needed for export **Critical Warnings:** - Exporting to Spain/Ibiza is **very difficult and time-consuming** — members report it took 2+ years and ultimately came to nothing despite significant effort - You **must have both a committed importer and distributor in Spain** before attempting export; without these, it is "virtually impossible" - Label compliance issues are a major blocker; customs clearance depends heavily on correct stickering and labelling - Members strongly advise getting these partners in place and sorted before investing time in the process
What distribution contacts and importers can help get spirits into international markets like Poland and Spain?
Members actively share distributor and importer contacts via direct message rather than publicly in the group. The typical route is to ask the community for an introduction, and members with relevant contacts will DM you to facilitate a connection. Specific markets mentioned: - **Poland** — Members have reported having contacts for gin and rum distribution; request via group and arrange introductions privately. - **Spain (Balearics)** — Members have reported contacts for high-end spirit distribution in this region; similar process of requesting an intro in the group. Caveats: No specific importer names, contact details, or established distributor lists were shared publicly in the discussion (members prefer to vet introductions privately). The community operates on a relationship-based model where you ask for help and interested members with relevant contacts will reach out directly.