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 is the process for obtaining FDA registration for a manufacturing facility to export spirits to the United States?
FDA registration for a canning/manufacturing facility is achievable but administrative. Most members use a US agent to handle the application, though it can be done in-house. **Key approaches:** - **Liberty Management Group** — members have used them as a US agent to handle FDA registration applications and act as your agent for a fee - **Self-service route** — members report their ops team has completed the registration themselves; it's doable but time-consuming - **Local US contacts** — some members have engaged individuals in the US (e.g. Texas-based) to manage the application locally **Essential requirement:** Your canning/manufacturing company must be set up as an FDA food facility registered. You will need a US agent regardless of whether you handle paperwork yourself or outsource it entirely. **Next steps:** Contact members directly for introductions to their FDA contacts or service providers — several members offered direct introductions within the community.
What's the best way to export spirits to the USA, Mexico, and Caribbean markets?
Exporting spirits internationally requires specialist knowledge of permits, documentation, and courier selection. Members have found success by working with dedicated export logistics providers and partnering with local importers who handle compliance. **Key approaches:** - **Seabrook Exports** — recommended for high-value spirit exports to the USA; they handle all required documentation ("kolas" — likely referring to regulatory submissions) and have proven experience placing stock into major retailers like Harrods' US network. - **Work with local importers** — if you're sending to an importer in your destination market, they typically provide detailed shipping instructions, handle cola waivers, and recommend approved couriers for their region. This significantly reduces compliance risk. **Note:** Members reported initial attempts to export were sent back, suggesting that working with experienced partners (rather than attempting direct shipment) is important. The specific requirements vary by destination market (USA, Mexico, Caribbean all have different regulations), so getting local importer guidance early is crucial.
Should I hire a lawyer to register a trademark in the USA, and how long does the review process take?
Yes, members recommend engaging professional legal help for US trademark registration, unlike the UK and EU where many handle it themselves. The US review process is slow: **current timelines are approximately 9 months**, with the most recent applications being reviewed from March 2023 onwards at the time of discussion. This represents a significant backlog compared to other markets.