IL Trade Practices

ANNOUNCEMENT

DATE: JANUARY 23, 2003

REVISED TRADE PRACTICE POLICIES (effective January 1, 2003)

Please take notice that the Illinois Liquor Control Commission has now published the revised Trade Practice Policies, placing the updated version on the Commission's website.

These policies were subject to numerous comment periods and meetings with the industry and their representatives, as well as verbal and written comments and observations. Some of the suggestions received by the Commission were incorporated into the revision; others had to be rejected as contrary to the provisions of the Liquor Control Act; and others are still being reviewed for possible addition at a later date.

All comments, which were submitted to the Commission, have been reviewed and acted upon in one fashion or another. It should be understood generally that these revised policies express the Commission’s best decision on questions presented to it, given the facts and circumstances involved and the state of prevailing law.

It should further be understood that ALL policies will remain under continuous review to better develop revisions responsive to new and changing circumstances.

Trade Practice Policies

INDEX (click on link to view each corresponding policy)

TPP-1: "Of Value" Standards

TPP-2: (Reserved) Specific Items or Activities which have been reviewed by the Commission for “of value” violations.

TPP-3: Manufacturer, Non-Resident Dealer, Distributor, Importing Distributor and Foreign Importer sponsorship of events at Retail Premises

TPP-4: Donations of Product and Services to Organizations

TPP-5: Retailer Payments to Manufacturers, Distributors Importing Distributors and Foreign Importers

TPP-6: Cooperative Purchasing Agreements

TPP-7: Reserved Point of Sale Materials - Manufacturer to Distributor

TPP-8: (Reserved)

TPP-9: Signage and other Advertising Materials

TPP-10: Reserved Signage Dollar Limits (1997 to present)

TPP-11: Consumer Coupons and Rebates

TPP-12: Hotel/Motel Mini Bars

TPP-13: Riverboat Gaming Operations

TPP-14: Standards for Approval of Test Marketing, Tastings and Product Sampling of products

TPP-15: Geographic Territories

TPP-16: Deposits on Bottles and Barrels for Beer

TPP-17: Non-Alcoholic Products

TPP-18: Pre-Mixing of Alcoholic Products

TPP-19: Auction of Liquor

TPP-20: Brew Pubs

TPP-21: (Reserved)

TPP-22: Happy Hour Law (***REVISED November 2011***)

TPP-23: Transportation and Delivery of Alcohol

TPP-24: (Reserved)

TPP-25: Stocking, Rotating and Re-Setting of Products

TPP-26: Transfer of Alcohol

TPP-27: Special Event Retailer (Not-For-Profit) License

TPP-28: Employment/Ownership Arrangements between Classes of Licensees

TPP-29: Retailers Making Excessive Purchases

TPP-30: Salvaged Alcoholic Liquors

TPP-31: Electronic Data Interchanges and Fund Transfers

TPP-32: Reserved Breakage: Replacement of Damaged or Defective Product (***REVISED November 2011***)

TPP-33: Brew on Premises

TPP-34: Reserved Indirect Payments through Third Party Arrangements

TPP-35: Original Package: Refilling

TPP-36: Consignment Sales

TPP-37: Importation of Alcohol into Illinois

TPP-38: Distributor Warehousing

TPP-39: Multi-tier licensing arrangements

TPP-40: Introduction of new spirits producer

ILLINOIS LIQUOR CONTROL COMMISSION

TRADE PRACTICE POLICIES

TPP-1 “Of Value” Standards (“Tied House”)

I. Purpose

To set the procedures of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission whereby the term “of value” (also referred to as “tied house”) shall be defined, and to determine what constitutes items “of value,” and not “of value,” under the Illinois Liquor Control Act, Rules and Regulations of the Commission, case authority, and prior interpretive opinions.

II. Policy Statement

It is the policy of this Commission to enforce the provisions of the Liquor Control Act in relation to prohibiting manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors from giving anything “of value” to retailers, and simultaneously prohibiting retailers from accepting anything “of value” from manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors, unless such transactions are specifically allowable pursuant to Illinois Statute, Rule, Regulation, case law, or Trade Practice of this Commission.

III. Precedent

A. Statutory History

The term “of value” originates in the Federal Tied House Laws (Federal Alcohol Administrative Act (FAAA), 27 U.S.C. 205 (a), (b) and (c)), which sections respectively refer to “Exclusive outlet,” “Tied house” and “Commercial bribery.” By granting gifts and loaning money to retailers, manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors had effectively “tied” themselves to retailers to the point of excluding competitors. This form of vertical integration between manufacturers, distributors and retailers allowed the distributors to exercise virtual control over the retailers. The federal Tied House Laws prohibited manufacturers and distributors from giving equipment, fixtures, signs, supplies, money, services, or other things “of value” to retailers. The federal Tied House Laws also prohibited manufacturers and distributors from inducing retailers to purchase alcoholic products from them only, to the exclusion of other suppliers. The Congressional objective sought by passage of the federal Tied House Laws, was the prevention of this wholesaler control of retailers. The concern was that buying decisions of the retailers were in actuality being made by the wholesalers, or by retailers too strongly influenced by the wholesalers, so that no independent business decision was being made. Congress also intended that the Act would promote a competitive alcohol market. The underlying premise being a genuinely competitive market led to lower prices, and lower prices removed the incentives for the creation of a black market. This federal law was implemented by rules, found at 27 CFR 1, et seq., as well as Trade Practice Regulations.

The Illinois General Assembly enacted its own “tied house” provisions in 1934, with the enactment of Laws 1933-34, 2nd. Sp. Sess., p. 57, art. VI, subsec. 4; subsequently Ill. Rev. Stat., ch. 43, par. 122 and 123; now known as 235 ILCS 5/6-5 and 5/6-6. These statutes have been interpreted in single subject opinion letters and most recently by these Trade Practice Policies. Also directly related to this “tied house” concept, Sec. 5/6-4 of the Illinois Compiled Statutes deals with prohibited “Retail Sales by Distillers, Manufacturers, Subsidiaries or Affiliates -Prohibited Transactions and Interests - Exemptions,” which is dealt with elsewhere in these policies.

235 ILCS 5/6-5 states, in summary, that no retail licensee may accept, receive or borrow money, or anything else of value, or accept or receive credit for greater than 30 days, directly or indirectly, from any distributor or manufacturer. And, no distributor or manufacturer may give or lend money or anything of value, or extend credit for greater than 30 days, directly or indirectly, to any retail licensee.

235 ILCS 5/6-6 states that no manufacturer or distributor shall, directly or indirectly:

sell, supply, furnish, give, pay for, or loan or lease any furnishing, fixture or equipment to a retail licensee;

pay for or advance, furnish, lend or give money to a licensee for payment of a license;

purchase or become owner of a note, mortgage or other indebtedness of a retail licensee;

be interested in the ownership, conduct or operation of a retail licensee;

be interested as the owner of a premises upon which a retail licensee is operating.

235 ILCS 5/6-6 does, however, allow manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to supply retailers with designated types of signage and advertising materials, all such items being subject to additional statutorily prescribed dollar limitations.

Note: Always consult the most recent version of these statutory provisions when examining individual transactions against the “of value” standard.

B. Relationship between federal laws and regulations and Illinois law and regulations

Although the Tied House provisions were developed at the Federal level, the 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granted each State the right to self-determination in regard to the transportation, importation and possession of intoxicating liquors. Therefore, Illinois statutory and regulatory provisions will generally override Federal law and regulation, especially in situations in which strictly intrastate transactions are involved. Where, however, there is no specific Illinois statutory or regulatory guidance regarding a specific issue in the area of “of value” transactions, this Commission will look to Federal law and regulation as a guide in interpreting Trade Practices under which Illinois licensees shall operate.

C. Commission discretion in determining trade practices under which Illinois licensees shall operate

Federal and State case laws clearly demonstrate that this Commission’s exercise of its “reasonable discretion” will be given “wide latitude” in its interpretation of the statutes and regulations which it is responsible to enforce. Courts give “substantial weight and deference” to interpretations of this Commission. Precedent indicates that this Commission will be granted such deference because of its considerable experience and expertise in administering and enforcing provisions of the Illinois Liquor Control Act. Case law indicates that courts will reverse decisions of this Commission only in the event the decision is “arbitrary and capricious” or if the sanction imposed is “overly harsh.”

D. Concept of “exclusion” of retail licensees as it applies to the “of value” provisions

Case Law

In National Distributing Co. v. United States Treasury Department, 626 F.2d 997 (D.C. Cir., 1980), the Court of Appeals ruled that selling alcoholic product below cost was not something “of value” under the FAAA. Tied House provisions did not prohibit suppliers from cutting prices, even selling below cost, “so long as the price cut [was] not connected with an agreement or understanding to purchase products from one wholesaler to the exclusion of others.” The primary purpose of the “Tied House” sections of the FAAA was the prevention of a form of vertical integration whereby wholesalers or producers might gain effective control of ostensibly independent retail outlets. Thus, price cuts did not violate the FAAA unless they were accompanied by an agreement or understanding to exclude other suppliers’ wares, or by some reasonable prospect of domination or control of a retail outlet by the supplier. The operative term in this analysis was “exclusion.” While a change in purchasing habits of any retailer may certainly have the effect of “exclusion” without the proof of an agreement to exclude, the practice of selling below cost was found not to be a violation.

In Sharpenter v. Illinois Liquor Control Commission, 119 Ill.2d 169, 518 N.E.2d 128 (1988) the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that suppliers allowing differential price discounts between on-premises and off-premises retail establishments did not violate the “of value” provisions of 235 ILCS 5/6-5, if such discounts were not established to create a tied house, but only to increase the volume of alcohol sales. “Price cuts are prohibited by the Act only when they are coupled with an agreement or understanding that a retailer will buy other products of the wholesaler or producer to the exclusion of competitors, or when they lead to domination and control of a retail outlet by the wholesaler or producer.” The Court held that Section 5/6-5 was not violated where the producer maintained such a preferential discount pricing policy only for the purpose of increasing the volume of sales. Please note that the term “exclusion” does not appear in the Illinois “of value” statutory provisions, so the Supreme Court heavily relied upon cases construing the federal standard of “exclusion.”

In Foremost Sales Promotions, Inc. v. Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, 880 F.2d 229 (7th Cir.,1988), the Seventh Circuit held that it was not a violation of the “of value” provisions of the FAAA for a wholesaler to advertise in a promotional newspaper distributed by a retail liquor chain. The Court believed that “inducing” a retailer to deal with a particular supplier, “to the exclusion in whole or part” of that supplier’s competitors, as that language is used in the FAAA, must be construed to incorporate some threshold requirement. The Court found that transactions between suppliers and retailers did not induce the “exclusion in whole or part” of competing suppliers unless their purpose was to lead to supplier control over ostensibly independent purchasers. The “exclusion” did not occur merely because an inducement ultimately led to a participating retailer buying less of a competing product. Again, this case appears to have been decided as it was due to a lack of proof of any “bad intent” on the part of the wholesaler.

And finally, in Fedway Associates, Inc. et al v. United States Treasury, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, 976 F.2d 1416 (D.C.Cir., 1992), the Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a distributor’s promotion of giving away videos and televisions to retailers purchasing large quantities of its brands of liquor was allowable. The Court decided that the FAAA did not prohibit a distributor from giving such items to retailers as inducements to purchase quantities of the distributor’s alcohol. The “exclusion” criterion had to give due credence to the significance of competitive wholesale promotions. Such promotional practices not only fostered the traditional benefits of competition in terms of lower prices and improved product quality, but also supported a competitive alcohol market thereby helping to deter the formation of a black market. Again, this case stands for the proposition that a violation of any of the federal “tied house” standards must be proven. This Court specifically noted that the BATF in zealously attempting to control inter-tier relationships neglected to actually prove its case with competent evidence.

Federal Regulations

In April 1995 the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) modified its “tied house” regulations. In making such revision, the BATF utilized the criterion promulgated under the Fedway decision to set the standard under which the “exclusion” of retail licensees would be found to exist. “Exclusion” was defined under a two-prong test of whether:

(1) “a practice by a manufacturer or distributor, whether direct, indirect, or through an affiliate, places (or has the potential to place) retailer independence at risk by means of a tie or link between the manufacturer or distributor and the retailer or by any means of manufacturer or distributor control over the retailer;” and,

(2) “the practice results in the retailer purchasing less than it would have of a competitor’s product.” (27 CFR, Subchapter A, Subpart E, Section 6.151(a)(1) & (2))

In determining whether “exclusion” has occurred, the regulatory body must determine whether:

(a) the practice restricts or hampers the free economic choice of the retailer in deciding which products to purchase or the quantities in which to purchase same for resale;

(b) the manufacturer or distributor obligates the retailer to participate in the promotion to obtain the industry member’s product;

(c) the retailer has a continuing obligation to purchase or otherwise promote the product of the manufacturer or distributor;

(d) the retailer has a commitment not to terminate its relationship with the manufacturer or distributor with respect to purchase of the manufacturer or distributor’s products;

(e) the practice involves the industry manufacturer or distributor in the day-to-day operations of the retailer;

(f) the practice is discriminatory in that it is not offered to all retailers in the local market on the same terms without business reasons present to justify the difference in treatment (27 CFR, Subchapter A, Subpart E, Section 6.153)

IV. Procedures

A. This Commission possesses broad discretion in making “of value” determinations

Under both Federal and Illinois case law, this Commission possesses reasonable discretion and wide latitude in determining whether activities of licensees violate the “of value” provisions of the Illinois Liquor Control Act.

B. Absent specific Illinois statutory or regulatory language, this Commission will look to Federal law and regulation for guidance in making determinations regarding “of value”

Violations

If there is an Illinois statute or regulation specifically determining whether a trade practice violates, or is allowed under, the “of value” provisions of the Illinois Liquor Control Act, this Commission enforces such provision as written. However, where the Illinois statutes and regulations are silent regarding a particular trade practice, this Commission will review federal law and regulation for guidance in making determinations whether a particular trade practice is a violation of the “of value” provisions of the Illinois Liquor Control Act.

C. Products and services presumed to be “of value”

Unless specifically enumerated as being allowable under the Illinois Liquor Control Act, the Rules and Regulations of this Commission, or Trade Practice enunciated by this Commission, products and services provided by manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to retailers, as well as such products and services being asked for or received by the retailer, shall be presumed to be “of value” and in violation of the Illinois Liquor Control Act. This Commission recognizes that there may be specific situations in which trade practices which provide something of value to retailers may nonetheless be allowable, and such practices shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Practices which have not received prior determination as being allowable shall be presumed to be “of value,” and in violation. The Commission is attempting to expeditiously update this policy as such case-by-case determinations are made. [See TPP-2 for specific practices upon which the Commission has made determinations whether the practices violated state “tied house” provisions.]

D. Trade Practices may not be discriminatory

Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors cannot enter into transactions with retailers, or a class of retailers, which are discriminatory in favor of such retailers, or which allow a particular retailer, or class of retailers, a competitive advantage. However, this Commission recognizes the holding of the Sharpenter case which allowed quantity discount price differentials between on-premises and off-premises retailers, so long as such promotions did not lead to the exclusion of competitors and domination and control over retailers. This Commission will enforce the proposition that promotions which induce exclusion of retailers products in whole or in part are not to be entered into.

TPP-2 Specific items or activities which have been reviewed by the Commission for “of value” violations

The following listing captures a large number of trade practices issues which have been submitted to the Commission for determination.

1) “Consumer Specialties”

Items commonly referred to as “consumer specialties” such as, for example, hats, t-shirts, jackets, sweat shirts, mugs, steins, key chains, sunglasses, lighters and the like, which are intended to be given to and received by the consumer, shall be distributed in person by the manufacturer, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer licensee or by an employee of the manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer licensee so as to verify that the items are being received by the consumer. Such consumer specialties which are determined to be retained, used, or not distributed by any retail liquor licensee, will be determined to be items “of value” to such retailer, and items “of value” to have been given by the manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, or importing distributor or foreign importer subjecting both licensees to potential discipline by the Commission.

Generally, a manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, or importing distributor or foreign importer may not provide free items to a retailer, if such items inure to the benefit of the retailer, as such items would be considered something "of value". A retailer may purchase consumer advertising specialties from a manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor. If the retailer pays for the consumer advertising specialties, such items may be retailer specific.

Consumer advertising specialties may be provided for free to a retailer if the retailer gives such items away to the ultimate consumer. If the retailer does not pay for the consumer advertising specialties, then such items may be brand or promotion specific only, but may not be retailer specific.

2) Courtesy Wagons

Retail Licensees

Pursuant to Reg. Sec. 100.210, a distributor or manufacturer may provide a courtesy wagon or coil boxes and pumps, free of charge, one time per year, for a one day period, for picnics held by a retailer. The manufacturer or distributor, however, may not supply free beer, wine or spirits for such event. If the event is held off the retail licensee's premise, the retail licensee must first obtain a special use permit pursuant to 235 ILCS 5/5-1(q).

Special Event Retailers

Pursuant to Trade Practice Policy TPP-4, a manufacturer or distributor may not supply product directly to a special event retailer licensee. Pursuant to 235 ILCS 5/1-3.17.1 a Special Event Retailer is an educational, fraternal, political, civic, religious or non-profit organization which sells or offers for sale beer or wine, or both, only for consumption at the location and on the date(s) designated on a special event retail license. Such organization must obtain a Special Event Retailer's License pursuant to 235 ILCS 5/5-1(e). In addition, a manufacturer or distributor may supply, free of charge, coil boxes and pumps, to any special event licensee. Such services are not considered something "of value" under 235 ILCS 5/6-5 and 5/6-6.

3) Meal and Entertainment Expenses

Distributors, importing distributors and manufacturers may incur reasonable expenses related to meals and entertainment with retailers. This Commission considers reasonable business meal and entertainment expenses as a standard business practice and conduct not in violation of the intent of the "of value" provisions of 235 ILCS 5/6-5 or 5/6-6. The practice of paying for a retailer's meal or entertainment expenses will be permitted so long as the inducement does not result in full or partial exclusion of products sold by other industry members. A manufacturer distributor or importing distributor may incur these expenses so long as it does not provide such meals and entertainment repeatedly to one retailer or a group of retailers, does not exclude other Illinois retailers, and does not violate the purpose or spirit of the federal Tied House Laws.

4) Participation in Retail Association Activities

This Commission shall allow distributors or manufacturers to participate in the following retail association activities:

a) Display of their products at a convention or trade show;

b) Rent display booth space, if the rental fee is not excessive and is the same as paid by all exhibitors;

c) Provide hospitality, where it is done as a separate activity or in conjunction with a banquet or dinner;

d) Purchase tickets to functions and pay registration fees, if the fees paid are not excessive and are the same as paid by all exhibitors;

e) Make payments for advertisements in programs or brochures issued by a retailer or association at a convention or trade show, if the total payment for all such advertisements do not exceed $300 per year for any retail association.

5) Retailers Charging for Floor or Shelf Space

The practice of a retailer charging a distributor or manufacturer for the floor or shelf space upon which its alcoholic beverage products sit is a violation of 235 ILCS 5/6-5 which forbids a retailer from accepting anything "of value" directly or indirectly from any manufacturer or distributor. Likewise, 5/6-5 prohibits any manufacturer or distributor from giving anything "of value" directly or indirectly to any retailer. Thus, both the payment for floor or shelf space and the receipt of such payment are violations of the statute by both the retailer and the supplier.

This Commission will investigate practices in which payment of space for non-alcoholic products is used to ensure placement of alcoholic products in a retailer's premise. In addition, this Commission will consider it to be a violation by both the supplier and retailer if a third-party promotion company is used to pass payment for prominent floor or shelf space from the supplier to the retailer. This Commission believes that an allowance for payment for floor and shelf space would result in" bidding wars" between suppliers, thereby resulting in the discriminatory exclusion of brands in retailer outlets.

6) Assisting in Pricing and Providing Products To Retailers

Pursuant to 235 ILCS 5/6-5, manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may not provide anything "of value" to a retailer, which includes services provided to a retailer. It is a violation for distributors and manufacturers to perform functions which are usually performed by the retailer in the normal operations of its business. Allowing manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to perform such functions would be equivalent to the distributors or manufacturers performing employee functions for the retailer, and therefore will not be allowed. This Commission will review the such "services" provided to retailers on a case-by-case basis.

Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors shall not affix prices to product on behalf of retailers. This prohibition maintains the historic division between manufacturers, distributors and retailers relative to the determination of prices of alcoholic liquor at the retail level. Additionally, this prohibition will avoid even the appearance of any attempt by manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to obtain control over the operations of retailers. Pricing of product shall include distributors or manufacturers affixing price stickers directly to product or entering prices into retailer computer systems.

Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may however after stocking a shelf affix “shelf tags” which identify the product and price of the product; however, at no time shall a manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor delegate or contract this service to a third party. “Shelf tags” shall be considered advertising materials and are subject to the provisions of Section 6-6 of the Liquor Control Act. Therefore, manufacturer shall not directly or indirectly require the distributor or importing distributor to purchase “shelf tags” or directly or indirectly require the distributor or importing distributor to purchase any advertising materials from the manufacturer or the manufacturer’s designated supplier. If the stocking involves movement and a change in the placement of the product on the shelf, the “shelf tags” may be moved to the new position of the product.

7) “No Charge” Products

Recently agents of the Commission have been finding invoices upon retailer premises which appear to be evidence of providing products without payment. These invoice items are usually designated as “N/C.” As you know, Sec. 5/6-5 prohibits manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors from giving and retailers from receiving items “of value” within the meaning of the statute. Rule 100.280 provides that no licensee, shall give away any alcoholic liquor for commercial purposes.

The Commission agents regularly report to the Legal staff marketing practices upon which they observe during regular licensee inspections. Frequently the agents are given the explanation by the retailer and distributor that "this is the way business has always been done," however, Commission agents can only examine whatever documents are available at the retailer's premises when they perform their inspections and base their observations on those documents. If the distributor has advertised price promotions directly to its clients, or the price is based upon oral representations by the distributor's sales personnel, etc., there is no information upon which an agent could come to the conclusion that the "N/C" alcohol represents a product-based price reduction. It is suggested that the confusion created in the minds of our agents is created by bare identifier "N/C" alcohol.

The Commission also understands that distributors usually assign an internal code number to each invoice item reflecting "no charge" merchandise, but such internal coding, without explanation of same to the agent is meaningless. The addition of a legend of "N/C" with a numeric identifier also provides no more information to the agents than does the bare reference to "N/C" alcohol. A legend, such as, for example, "product in lieu of price reduction," or words to that effect, would more properly allow the Commission's agents to prepare reports of their findings after reviewing invoices and other documents, upon which reports the Legal Staff could come to reasoned decisions concerning a particular promotion.

It may turn out that the product is being given "no charge" for a valid reason, i.e. replacement of product broken upon delivery, a product in lieu of a reduction in price, etc.; however, it is incumbent upon the retailer and distributor to advise the agent of the reason for the apparent delivery of product without charge.

8) Retailer Warehousing

It is the policy of the Commission that a retailer may not warehouse alcohol on unlicensed business premises.

The following statutory provisions have application to the question of whether retailers are permitted to warehouse products.

A. Definitions

5/1-3.15. Distributor

"Distributor" means any person, other than a manufacturer or non‑resident dealer licensed under this Act, who is engaged in this State in purchasing, storing, possessing or warehousing any alcoholic liquors for resale or reselling at wholesale, whether within or without this State. (Source: P.A. 83‑1254) (from Ch. 43, par. 95.15) 5/1-3.17. Retailer

"Retailer" means a person who sells, or offers for sale, alcoholic liquor for use or consumption and not for resale in any form. (Source: P.A. 82‑783) (from Ch. 43, par. 95.17) 5/5-1

(d) A retailer's license shall allow the licensee to sell and offer for sale at retail, only in the premises specified in such license, alcoholic liquor for use or consumption, but not for resale in any form: Provided that any retail license issued to a manufacturer shall only permit such manufacturer to sell beer at retail on the premises actually occupied by such manufacturer. After January 1, 1995, there shall be 2 classes of licenses issued under a retailers license:

(1) "retailers on premise consumption license" shall allow the licensee to sell and offer for sale at retail, only on the premises specified in the license, alcoholic liquor for use or consumption on the premises or on and off the premises, but not for resale in any form.

(1) An "off premise sale license" shall allow the licensee to sell, or offer for sale at retail, alcoholic liquor intended only or off premise consumption and not for resale in any form. Notwithstanding any other provision of this subsection (d), a retail licensee may sell alcoholic liquors to a special event retailer licensee for resale to the extent permitted under subsection (e).

5/5-1. Licenses issued by Illinois Liquor Control Commission

(b) A distributor's license shall allow the wholesale purchase and storage of alcoholic liquors and sale of alcoholic liquors to licensees in this State and to persons without the State, as may be permitted by law.

5/7A-1.Terms Defined

For the purposes of this Article:

"Warehouse" means any room, house, structure, building, place, yard or protected enclosure wherein personal property belonging to another is stored for compensation.

"Warehouseman" means any person, firm, partnership, association or corporation owning, controlling, operating, managing or leasing any warehouse within this State. "For compensation" means any direct or indirect charge for storage. (Source: P.A. 82‑783) (from Ch. 43, par. 157a)

5/7-A6. Violations

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this Article or any of the rules and regulations of the Department [of Revenue] for the administration and enforcement of the provisions of this Article is guilty of a Class B misdemeanor. In case of a continuing violation each day's continuance thereof shall be a separate and distinct offense. (Source: P.A. 82‑783) (from Ch. 43, par. 157f)

5/2.1 Scope of Act

No person shall manufacture, bottle, blend, sell, barter, transport, deliver, furnish or possess any alcoholic liquor for beverage purposes, except as specifically provided in this Act,. . .” The usual reason for warehousing by a retailer is to take advantage of volume discounts at the time of purchasing.

Retailer warehousing

It is the policy of the Commission that a retailer may not warehouse alcohol on unlicensed business premises.

The following statutory provisions have application to the question of whether retailers are permitted to warehouse products.

A. Definitions

5/1-3.15. Distributor

5/1-3.17. Retailer

"Retailer" means a person who sells, or offers for sale, alcoholic liquor for use or consumption and not for resale in any form. (Source: P.A. 82‑783) (from Ch. 43, par. 95.17)

5/5-1

(1) A "retailers on premise consumption license" shall allow the licensee to sell and offer for sale at retail, only on the premises specified in the license, alcoholic liquor for use or consumption on the premises or on and off the premises, but not for resale in any form. (2) An "off premise sale license" shall allow the licensee to sell, or offer for sale at retail, alcoholic liquor intended only for off premise consumption and not for resale in any form. Notwithstanding any other provision of this subsection (d), a retail licensee may sell alcoholic liquors to a special event retailer licensee for resale to the extent permitted under subsection (e).

5/5-1. Licenses issued by Illinois Liquor Control Commission

5/7A-1.Terms Defined

For the purposes of this Article:

"Warehouse" means any room, house, structure, building, place, yard or protected enclosure wherein personal property belonging to another is stored for compensation.

5/7-A6. Violations

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this Article or any of the rules and regulations of the Department [of Revenue) for the administration and enforcement of the provisions of this Article is guilty of a Class B misdemeanor. In case of a continuing violation each day's continuance thereof shall be a separate and distinct offense. (Source: P.A. 82‑783) (from Ch. 43, par. 157f)

5/2.1 Scope of Act :

No person shall manufacture, bottle, blend, sell, barter, transport, deliver, furnish or possess any alcoholic liquor for beverage purposes, except as specifically provided in this Act,. . .@ The usual reason for warehousing by a retailer is to take advantage of volume discounts at the time of purchasing.

The problems which are created by such warehousing include:

deliveries to non-licensed premises possible sales of alcoholic beverages from such non-licensed premises possible geographic boundary violations additional work necessary by Commission agents to track such alcohol.

Since the definition of a “distributor” states that it may among other activities “warehouse” the Act has made this activity allowable. But the definition of “retailer” does not make any reference to the concept of “warehousing,” so referring to Sec. 5/2.1, below, it cannot warehouse. The argument is that whatever the conduct is, if it is not specifically allowed under the statute, it is prohibited. This is supported by the plain language of Sec. 5/2.1:

5/2.1 Scope of Act

No person shall manufacture, bottle, blend, sell, barter, transport, deliver, furnish or possess any alcoholic liquor for Beverage purposes, except as specifically provided in this Act.

The contrary position, which is being espoused by the proponents of retailer warehousing, is that since the activity of “warehousing” is not a specifically prohibited activity of a retailer, it is allowed. This argument flies in the face of Sec. 5/2.1 above. This also flies in the face of the concept of returning control over the alcohol trade to the States by the adoption of the 21st Amendment. Since the 18th Amendment essentially made the alcohol business illegal and the 21st Amendment by repealing the 18th made the trade legal, and since the States were given the power to control the activity, the statutes which were enacted subsequent thereto, such as the Illinois Liquor Control Act, were making previously illegal activities legitimate.

To say that the enabling statute allows any activity not specifically prohibited does not comport with the “except as specifically provided in this Act,. . .” language. People v. Select Specialties, Ltd., 317 Ill.App.3d 538, 740 N.E.2d 543, 251 Ill.Dec. 462 (4th District, 12/6/00)

The Act provides as follows:

"No person shall manufacture, bottle, blend, sell, barter, transport, deliver, furnish or possess any alcoholic liquor for beverage purposes, except as specially provided in this Act ***." 235 ILCS 5/2‑1 (West 1996).

The cardinal rule in statutory construction is to give effect to legislative intent. Solich v. George & Anna Portes Cancer Prevention Center of Chicago, Inc., 158 Ill. 2d 76, 81, 630 N.E.2d 820, 822 (1994); Central Illinois Public Service Co. v. Illinois Commerce Comm'n, 268 Ill. App. 3d 471, 483, 644 N.E.2d 817, 825‑26 (1994). The primary guide as to intent is the language of the statute. Solich, 158 Ill. 2d at 81, 630 N.E.2d at 822. Words in the statute should be given their popularly understood meaning. International Bureau of Fraud Control, Ltd. v. Clayton, 188 Ill. App. 3d 703, 710, 544 N.E.2d 416, 421 (1989), citing Kozak v. Retirement Board of the Firemen's Annuity & Benefit Fund, 95 Ill. 2d 211, 215, 447 N.E.2d 394, 396 (1983). Where the statutory language is unclear, a court may look beyond it, but where it is clear the court must give it effect. Solich, 158 Ill. 2d at 81, 630 N.E.2d at 822. When the language is unclear, a primary source for construing the statute is the purpose behind the law and the evils the law is designed to remedy. Solich, 158 Ill. 2d at 81, 630 N.E.2d at 822. Courts avoid interpretations that would render part of a statute meaningless or void. Fraud Control, 188 Ill. App. 3d at 710, 544 N.E.2d at 421, citing Harris v. Manor Healthcare Corp., 111 Ill. 2d 350, 362‑63, 489 N.E.2d 1374, 1379 (1986).

The Act is to be liberally construed toward protecting the public health, safety, and welfare and toward promotion of temperance in the consumption of alcohol by careful control and regulation of the manufacture, sale, and distribution of alcoholic liquor. 235 ILCS 5/1‑2 (West 1996).

A strict or technical construction of any of its provisions detrimental to the public interest should be avoided . Carrigan v. Liquor Control Comm'n, 19 Ill. 2d 230, 236, 166 N.E.2d 574, 577‑78 (1960). The business of selling liquor is not favored; no inherent right exists to carry it on and it may be entirely prohibited. Daley v. Berzanskis, 47 Ill. 2d 395, 398, 269 N.E.2d 716, 718 (1971). If the Act is to have any meaning, it must be interpreted as starting from a point of prohibition. The Act then provides exceptions where persons may conduct certain activities involving alcohol as long as they have a valid liquor license. 235 ILCS 5/2‑1, 5‑1 (West 1996). “The State argues the Act prohibits what it does not permit. The Act must expressly permit the actions of the defendants in this case or they are in violation of the Act. There is no express permission for their conduct, and we conclude they violated the Act.” People v. Select Specialties, Ltd., 317 Ill.App.3d 538, 740 N.E.2d 543, 251 Ill. Dec. 462 (4th District, 12/6/00)

9) “Buckets”

The practice of distributors "providing" plastic buckets to retailers, which are used in serving multiple bottles of beer to a proper party, in accordance with Sec. 6-28(c)(6) of the Happy Hour law, is governed by the normal "of value" inquiry as well as reference to Sec. 6-6(iv), which provides that items, such as for example, "coasters, trays, napkins, glassware and cups shall not be deemed to be inside signs or advertising materials and may only be sold to retailers." Since these buckets fall within the general category of non-sign, non-advertising materials above, they may only be sold to retailers.

10) “Coolers”

In 1998 a major brewery submitted a request for approval of the giving away of coolers to retailers. The Commission’s response was that the proposed activity was a violation of the “of value” provisions of the Liquor Control Act. In 1999 a major trade association requested a position on the same or a very similar activity, and was advised of the existence of the 1998 opinion, which remained in effect until such time as the Commission had revisited the issue and announced a modification of its position.

The term “utilitarian” has been applied to these coolers. Illinois does not have an expressed position on the “utility” of “signage and advertising materials,” but it does expressly state that the providing of “any furnishing, fixture or equipment on the premises of a place of business of another licensee authorized under this Act to sell alcoholic liquor at retail” is prohibited activity.

Since these coolers have the attributes of both signage and a trade fixture (therefore equating them with “utility”), they are something of a hybrid, being neither totally signage nor fixture, but at the same time being both. Since signage and advertising materials may be given or sold to retailers, while fixtures may be neither given nor sold to retailers, the subject of these coolers was viewed with an eye toward allowing the advertising while upholding the prohibition against giving or selling equipment, furnishings and fixtures.

In an attempt to strike a balance between allowable activities and activities absolutely prohibited under 5/6-5 and 5/6-6, the Commission has come to the position that these coolers may be “provided” to retailers, however, they must be sold at fair market value. (The Commission is advised that the average fair market value of these coolers usually ranges from $70-150.00, however the Commission will be receptive to additional cost information which will be factored into future discussions.)

Again, the Commission notes that once a program of providing coolers is undertaken, the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor must stand ready to “provide” the items for all retail licensees who want to purchase them.

11) Retailer storage on the licensed premises of wine purchased by a consumer

The question has been posed whether a retailer of fine wines can store small quantities of wine, which are solely intended for consumption by the purchaser, and family, friends, etc., and not for any possible resale, in a temperature controlled environment, etc., upon the retailer’s licensed premises, for a consumer who has purchased the wine but does not have appropriate storage for it at his/her home.

The usual reasons for storing/warehousing by a retailer, i.e., to take advantage of volume discounts at the time of purchasing, such as we saw when the tax increase took effect on July 1, 1999, does not appear to be relevant to this inquiry. The other usual problems which are created by such warehousing, which include possible deliveries to non-licensed premises; possible sales of alcoholic beverages from such non-licensed premises; possible geographic boundary violations; additional work necessary by Commission agents to track such alcohol, also do not appear to be relevant here. Also, the usual inquiry into such transactions from the “of value” perspective does not apply since this transaction does not involve a relationship between the licensed tiers, but rather between the retail licensee and the ultimate consumer.

The statutory sections which apply to retailers, 5/1-3.17 and 5/5-1(d), and the general “Scope of the Act” section, 5/2-1, have been examined and no prohibition to the approval of this relationship has been found.

It is the Commission’s position, which has been pronounced in connection with the concept of distributor warehousing for retailers, that all “of value” activities between the tiers are prohibited unless specifically allowed, or excepted, and the subject inquiry has also been examined from this perspective to see if the requested activities are otherwise prohibited. We find no such prohibition.

There are potential problems which we may see in this transaction, which involve the concept of consignment sale, which the Commission has found to be an improper transaction between the retailer and consumer, as well as raising possible commercial problems, such as loss or destruction of the property of another during this “bailment” arrangement. The Commission does not have statutory power to inquire into these commercial problems, and expects the parties to the proposed arrangement will adequately deal with them.

Therefore, as long as:

(1) the sale of the product is complete before the storage arrangement is undertaken, and capable of objective documentation, which will negate the possibility of a prohibited consignment sale;

(2) the consumer/purchaser has taken legal title to the property;

(3) the product purchased is of a size which would be appropriate for a consumer, such as the two case limitation imposed upon reciprocal shipments of wine under sec. 5/6-29 of the Liquor Control Act, as opposed to a purchase of product which would be appropriate for resale; and

(4) there is a documented payment from the consumer to the retailer for the “storage” fee, pre-paid or at regular intervals, the Commission does not see other prohibitions against the transaction.

12) The listing of retail liquor licensees carrying the products of a manufacturer or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer on the manufacturer’s or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer’s website

The Commission has received requests from certain manufacturers and distributor, importing distributor or foreign importers of alcoholic liquors if the listing of the names and addresses of retail liquor licensees carrying the products of a manufacturer or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer for sale on the manufacturer’s or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer’s website is a violation of the “of value” provisions of the Liquor Control Act of 1934.

Sections 5/6-4, 5/6-5 and 5/6-6 of the Liquor Control Act, the so-called “of value” or “tied house” provisions generally prohibit ownership/licensing relationships, the extension of credit and the providing of various types of advertising materials unless excepted in the said sections.

It is the Commission’s considered opinion that the listing of the names and addresses of all retail liquor licensees who carry the products for sale of a manufacturer or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer may be listed on the manufacturer’s and/or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer’s websites, subject to the following conditions:

1) The retailer contacts the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor or foreign importer to have its business information included in the retailer listing.

2) The retailer listing shall include only the business name, business address and telephone number. The inclusion of E-mail or website addresses is prohibited.

3) The retailer listing does not provide specific product information, but rather is a general statement that the retailers listed carry the products of the manufacturer or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer.

4) The retailer listing shall include all retail licensees carrying the manufacturer’s or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer’s products, which listing may be on a city, town or village basis, or zip codes, or by any system which assures that all retailers are listed.

5) The listing shall include no retailer information other than referenced in these subsections, and “sales” or “product promotions” or the like are strictly prohibited.

6) The inclusion of any and all retailers on the manufacturer’s or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer’s website shall be at no direct or indirect cost to the retailer.

7) The manufacturer’s, non-resident dealer’s, distributor’s, importing distributor’s or foreign importer’s website shall not may provide a “link” to a website of any retail licensee, provided such linking is made available to all retailers requesting it. whether listed or not listed on the manufacturer’s or distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer’s website.

The Commission publishes this opinion with the express understanding that the purpose of such retailer listings is to provide truthful, accurate and up-to-date information to the ultimate consumer concerning the availability of alcoholic beverages.

13) “EOM”, “EOY” etc. credits or rebates

Suppliers are paying EOM (Aend of month@) EOY (“end of year”) or other variously identified credits (Arebates@) for purchases at or in excess of agreed upon quantities. Is this an “of value” violation?

Traditionally, the Commission has not involved itself in the pricing of alcoholic beverages, nor has it unduly involved itself in the commercial relationships between manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors, and retailers, other that specifically provided for in Sec. 5/6-5. The use of product credits, such as end of month, quarter, year, etc., credits is viewed as an adjustment of the purchase price based upon volume purchasing, rather than a prohibited Aof value@ payment. So, the general treatment of such payments is that they are allowable, if broadly offered to similarly situated retailers.

Does the payment of the credit, which would otherwise be allowable, directly to the home office of a chain retailer cause this practice to become a violation? Since the multiple outlets of the chain retailer are all owned by the same corporation, there is a unity of owner and licensees, so payments to the corporation or the individual retail outlet has the same legal effect.

It is the opinion of the Legal Division that this practice is not a violation of Sec. 5/6-5.

14. CARBON DIOXIDE FILTERS

A Manufacturer, Importing Distributor, or Distributor may sell, supply, furnish, give or pay for, or otherwise provide to and install for a licensee authorized to sell alcoholic beverages at retail, carbon dioxide filters provided that the following applies:

1. The cost to the manufacturer importing distributor or distributor for such filters, including labor and installation costs, does not exceed Fifty Dollars($50.00).

2. The filters are installed in such a manner that it protects and cleans the CO2 supply for all the draft beer in the retailer’s delivery system and not just the products carried by the manufacturer, importing distributor or distributor supplying the filter.

3. The filters must be made available to all retailers that sell draft beer.

4. The manufacturer, importing distributor, or distributor may not limit the availability of the filter to only the retailers that carry the brands of the supplying manufacturer, importing distributor or distributor.

It is the determination of the Commission that CO2 filters may provide consumer protection and aid in providing a safe and healthy product delivered to consumers. Therefore, the Commission has determined that providing such items under the above standards, would not constitute a “thing of value” or otherwise be prohibited within the meaning of Sections 5/6-4, 5/6-5 o5 5/6-6, of the Illinois Liquor Control Act(235 ILCS 5/1 et seq.)

This Trade Practice Policy shall expire and be repealed on October 1, 2006 unless readopted by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission.

TPP-3 Manufacturer, Distributor And Importing Distributor sponsorship of events at retail premises

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) and establish the procedures whereby manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may sponsor events at retail premises.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that manufacturers, non-resident dealers, distributors, and importing distributors or foreign importers may sponsor events at licensed retail premises under the following terms and conditions.

III. Background

Sections 5/6-4, 5/6-5 and 5/6-6 of the Illinois Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/6-4, 5/6-5 & 5/6-6) deal with things “of value” in dealings between manufacturers, non-resident dealers, distributors , and importing distributors, or foreign importers and retailers. This Commission’s Trade Practices concerning things “Of Value” (TPP-1) is incorporated herein by reference.

Section 100.330, titled “Advertising,” provides:

1. Pursuant to Sections 6-4, 6-5, and 6-5 of the Act (235 ILCS 5/6-4, 6-5, and 6-6), no retail licensee or entity having more than a 5% interest in a retail licensee shall have any, direct or indirect, interest in or control of any advertising or promotional company which receives funds, directly or indirectly from, or for the account of, any manufacturer, non-resident dealer, broker, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer of alcoholic beverages; nor shall any manufacturer, non-resident dealer, broker, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer make any payment, direct or indirect, to any retailer or any other entity which provides advertising, promotional or display services for retailers in consideration of any advertising or promotional efforts of any kind not allowed under the Illinois Liquor Control Act or the rules and regulations of the Commission.

2. Nothing herein shall prohibit any manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor, or foreign importer from sponsoring an event at a venue which sole purpose is to host live entertainment, provided that no indirect or direct payment is made to the retailer and that any reference to the retailer in any advertising is incidental to the event itself.

3. Subsections (1) and (2) above do not apply to a person holding a special event retailer’s license. (Source: Amended at 20 Ill. Reg. 834, effective January 2, 1996)

IV. Procedure

Manufacturers, non-resident dealers, distributors , and importing distributors or foreign importers may sponsor events on behalf the premises of retailers under the following terms and conditions:

A. The manufacturer, non-resident dealers, distributor, or importing distributor or foreign importers must provide all advertising and promotional items costs, without cost, or make payment directly to a third-party promoter (e.g., a non-licensed entity participating in the creation of the event.)provided any payment made to a third party promoter shall be solely for advertising and promotional costs. A copy of the signed paid receipt itemizing the advertising and promotional costs shall be maintained by the manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor, or foreign importer furnishing such advertising and promotional costs.

B. Except as limited by Paragraph A above, The manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, or importing distributor, foreign importer or third party promoter shall not give any financial remuneration directly or indirectly to the retailer;

C. Third-party promoters cannot be affiliated with or under the control of, either directly or indirectly, the retailer, distributor or manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, or importing distributor or foreign importer, in any manner;

D. The focus of all advertising of the event must give primary emphasis to the event itself, the charitable, philanthropic reason therefore, etc., and therefore any reference to the retailer in any advertising materials must be strictly incidental to the event (e.g., stating the location of the event);

E. The “sponsoring” retailer may not restrict the availability of any other alcoholic liquor, nor may it exclude or require the sale of any other manufacturer’s, non-resident dealer’s, or distributor’s, importing distributor’s or foreign importer’s product during the event; and

F. Manufacturers, non-resident dealers, distributors, and importing distributors or foreign importers must make all reasonable attempts to conduct events only at retail locations which can accommodate such events (e.g. all venues that are geared to concert presentations must be given equal opportunities to host concerts).

G. Manufacturers, non-resident dealers, distributors and importing distributors or foreign importers may not repeatedly sponsor events for one retailer or group of retailers to the exclusion of all other retailers. H. Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors must, prior to the event, obtain from the third party promoter a signed affidavit containing the information requested in the form set forth hereafter. Such affidavit shall be filed with the Commission prior to the event and a copy retained by the manufacturer, distributor and importing distributor furnishing the advertising and promotional items in accordance with Section 5/6-10 (235 ILCS 5/6-10).

Prior to holding the event, the manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer furnishing the advertising or promotional costs or making payment to the Third Party Promoter shall receive from the retailer a sworn statement executed by the Third Party Promoter containing the information in the form provided hereafter. The Commission shall be furnished a copy of the sworn statement by the retailer and the Commission shall receive a copy of the sworn statement at least two (2) business days prior to the event. The retailer may furnish to the Commission a copy of the sworn statement by facsimile, delivery in person the Commission’s Office in Chicago or Springfield or by Certified Mail, postage prepaid.

V. Third-Party Promotion Company Affidavit Statement

All retail liquor licensees utilizing the services of a so-called “third-party promotion” company, shall file with the Commission, before any services are provided it by the third-party promotion company, an affidavit from the owner of the third-party promotion company and an affidavit from the retailer, in substantially the following formats:

STATE OF ILLINOIS

LIQUOR CONTROL COMMISSION

In the Matter of:

Re: Nature of sponsored Event or Services provided by Third-Party Company:

Date of event:

Retailer:

Supplier or Wholesaler:

Third-party company:

THIRD-PARTY COMPANY AFFIDAVIT

[RETAILER LICENSEE FORM]

The undersigned, being first duly sworn, on oath deposes and states:

1. I am the (title/capacity) of the above Retailer licensee, located at

2. I have full legal capacity to execute this Affidavit on behalf of the retailer licensee.

3. The retailer licensee presently holds Illinois Retailer Liquor License No. ,which expires on.

4. The retailer has retained the services of the above Third-party company in connection with the above specified sponsored event or services to be conducted on the retailer=s licensed premises.

5. That neither the retailer licensee, nor any officer, director, shareholder, employee or representative of the retail licensee has any interest, direct or indirect, in the third-party company.

6. That all funds paid to the third-party company shall represent the fair market value of such services rendered by it to or on behalf of the above supplier or wholesaler.

7. That no funds paid to the third-party company for services rendered to or on behalf of the above supplier or wholesaler will be paid to the retailer liquor licensee or any person affiliated with the retailer liquor licensee, including but not limited to payments for merchandising and promotional services, scan-backs, undocumented coupon redemptions, etc.

8. Complete the following subparagraphs which are applicable to the specific sponsored event or services:

a) The following is a detailed description of the “sponsored event” that will be held at the retailer licensee=s business premises:

The cost of sponsorship shall be: (Dollars), covering the following expenses:

b) I hereby represent that the sole purpose of the venue where the event is to be held is to host live entertainment in conformity with Regulation 100.330(b).

c) The following is a detailed description of the merchandising and promotional services that will be furnished to or installed on the retailer licensed premises, including the name of the company which retained the third-party company, the cost of each item furnished to the retailer licensee plus the normal and customary cost of labor, erection and installation, and the person to whom the payment shall be made.

Dated: Affiant:

Title

State of Illinois )

)ss.

County of )

Subscribed and sworn to before me this day of

, 20

Notary Public (SEAL)

This completed form shall be filed with the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, 100 West Randolph Street, Suite 5-300, Chicago, Illinois 60601; fax 312-814-2241.

and:

STATE OF ILLINOIS

LIQUOR CONTROL COMMISSION

In the Matter of:

Re: Nature of sponsored Event or Services provided by Third-Party Company:

Date of event: Retailer: Supplier or Wholesaler: Third-party company:

THIRD-PARTY COMPANY AFFIDAVIT

[THIRD-PARTY COMPANY FORM]

The undersigned, being first duly sworn, on oath deposes and states:

1. I am the (title or capacity) of (hereafter referred to as Athird-party company@).

2. I have full legal capacity to execute this Affidavit on behalf of the third-party company.

3. The above referenced retailer licensee has retained the services of the third-party company in connection with the above referenced sponsored event or services to be conducted on the retailer=s licensed premises.

4. That neither the retailer licensee, nor any officer, director, shareholder, employee or representative of the retail licensee has any interest, direct or indirect, in the third-party company.

5. That all funds paid to the third-party company shall represent the fair market value of such sponsored event or services rendered by it to or on behalf of the above supplier or wholesaler.

6. That no funds paid to the third-party company for sponsorship or services rendered to or on behalf of the referenced supplier or wholesaler will be paid to the retailer liquor licensee or any person affiliated with the retailer liquor licensee, including but not limited to payments for merchandising and promotional services, scan-backs, undocumented coupon redemptions, etc.

7. Complete the following subparagraphs which are applicable to the specific sponsored event or services:

a) The following is a detailed description of the A sponsored event@ that will be held at the retailer licensee=s business premises:

The cost of sponsorship shall be: (Dollars), covering the following expenses:

b) I hereby represent that the sole purpose of the venue where the event is to be held is to host live entertainment in conformity with Regulation 100.330(b).

Dated:

Affiant:

Title:

State of Illinois )

)ss.

County of

Subscribed and sworn to before

me this day of

, 20

Notary Public (SEAL)

This completed form shall be filed with the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, 100 West Randolph Street, Suite 5-300, Chicago, Illinois 60601; fax 312-814-2241.

I. In the event a manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer furnishes advertising and promotional costs or makes payment to the Third Party Promoter for such advertising and promotional costs in an amount in excess of $500.00 for each location, such manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer shall secure prior approval from the Commission by identifying the proposed advertising and promotional costs, which total costs cannot exceed $2,500.00 for each location associated therewith to be furnished to the Third Party Promoter, such request to the Commission shall be furnished prior to scheduling the event at the location of the retail premises.

VI. Exceptions

The limitations under Section V above do not apply to units of government holding retailer’s liquor licenses; however, such limitation under Paragraph V will apply if the retail license is held in the name of a concessionaire which is not a public body.

TPP-4 Donations Of Products And Services To Organizations

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby manufacturers, distributors, importing distributors, and retailers may make donations of cash, alcoholic and non-alcoholic products and services to not-for-profit organizations and Special Event Retailer Licensees.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that donations of cash, non-alcoholic products and services only may be made by manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to not-for-profit organizations and Special Event Retailer Licensees. Donations of alcoholic liquor products from a manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor may not be made for a commercial purpose. Donations of cash, alcoholic and non-alcoholic products, and services may be made by a retailer to not-for-profit organizations and Special Event Retailer Licensees. The proof of a donation not being made for a commercial purpose is on the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor.

III. Background, Statute, Regulations

235 ILCS 5/6-5 generally states that no retail liquor licensee may accept, receive or borrow money, or anything else of value, or accept or receive credit of greater than 30 days (for wine and spirits), directly or indirectly, from any manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor. Likewise, no manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor may give or lend money or anything of value, or extend credit for greater than 30 days (for wine and spirits), directly or indirectly to any retail liquor licensee.

235 ILCS 5/6-6 provides that no manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor shall, directly or indirectly: (a) sell, supply, furnish, give, pay for, or loan or lease any furnishing, fixture or equipment to a retail liquor licensee; (b) pay for or advance, furnish, lend or give money to a licensee for payment of a license; (c) purchase or become owner of a note, mortgage, or other indebtedness of a retail licensee; (d) be interested in the ownership, conduct, or operation of a retail licensee; (e) be interested as the owner of a premises upon which a retail licensee is operating.

Section 5/6-6 further generally allows manufacturers, distributors or importing distributors to supply retailers with one outside permanent and temporary sign, inside signage, and other advertising materials, all as enumerated in the statute, all within designated dollar limits.

Regulation 100.210 deals with courtesy wagon and/or coil box and pump limitations upon distributors supplying such items free of charge for picnics of retail liquor licensees. It generally states that the providing of free beer or wine to the retail licensee is not allowed (Subsection (b)). Courtesy wagons and/or coil boxes and pumps may be supplied by distributors for picnics, carnivals or social events that are given by or under the auspices or sponsorship of an educational, fraternal, political, civic, religious, charitable, or non-profit organization, i.e., a Special Event Retailer Licensee. These regulations differentiate between retail licensees receiving Special Use Permits and the Special Event Retailer Licensee. Under Subsection (b), Special Use Permit licensees may receive donations of products only one time a year, while under Subsection (c) Special Event Retailer Licensees may receive donations of products at any time.

Regulation 100.280 provides that (a) no individual, partnership or corporation shall give away any alcoholic liquor for commercial purposes or in conjunction with the sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products; (b) no licensee shall give or offer to give away alcoholic liquor in connection with the sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products; and (c) no individual, partnership, corporation, or licensee shall advertise or promote in any way, whether on or off premises, either of the practices under Subsection (a) or (b). The regulation further delineates the “giving away of alcohol” to be impermissible if done for “commercial purposes” or in connection with the “sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products.”

The Special Event Retailer’s License (Not-for-Profit), as defined in Section 5/5-1(e), allows such licensee to sell and offer for sale, at retail, alcoholic liquors for use or consumption, but not for resale in any form and only at the location and on the specific dates designated for the special event in the license. This Commission has taken the view that such a license is “special” since (a) the profits of such licensee inure to the benefit of a charitable, fraternal, etc., organization; and (b) the license is limited to a short term. This Commission believes that contributions to such organizations, made with a clear charitable or donative purpose, are in the best interest of the alcoholic liquor industry.

When Regulations 100.210 and 100.280 are read together, it is this Commission’s position that the giving away of alcoholic product by a manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor may not be done for a commercial purpose or in connection with the sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products.

IV. Procedures

A. Manufacturers, Distributors and Importing Distributors

Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may make contributions of cash, non-alcoholic product, services, equipment or signs to a not-for-profit organization, as defined in the Illinois Liquor Control Act, and a Special Event Retailer Licensee subject to the following:

(1) Alcoholic products may not be given for a commercial purpose or in connection with the sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products.

(2) The Special Event Retailer must be allowed to sell other brands at its discretion. Although exclusivity agreements are generally considered to be a violation of the non-discrimination provisions of Trade Practice Policy 1, in order to allow Special Event Retailer Licensees to take advantage of potential contribution opportunities, this Commission shall allow Special Event Retailer Licensees to enter into exclusivity agreements which include the receipt of non-alcoholic product, services or cash from manufacturers, distributors or importing distributors.

(3) Signage dollar limitations contained in Section 5/6-6 do not apply to signs donated to a Special Event Retailer Licensee.

B. Retailers

Retail licensees may make donations of cash, alcoholic and non-alcoholic product and services to not-for-Profit organizations and Special Event Retail Licensees.

TPP-5 Retailer Payments To Manufacturers, Importing Distributors And Distributors

I. Purpose

It is the purpose of this Policy to make the industry aware of the permissible methods of payment for alcoholic liquor between retailers and manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the State of Illinois to allow manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to extend credit for no more than 30 days to retailers for the purchase of wine and spirits; to allow for various payment methods which are considered cash equivalents; and to allow for finance and banking charges which are standard in the course of business if such charges are properly disclosed to retailers.

III. Background, Statute, Regulation

235 ILCS 5/6-5 provides in relevant part that a retail liquor licensee shall not accept or receive credit (other than merchandising credit in the ordinary course of business for a period not to exceed 30 days) directly or indirectly from any manufacturer, importing distributor or distributor of alcoholic liquor, and any manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor may not loan or extend credit (except such merchandising credit) directly or

indirectly to any retail liquor licensee. Retail liquor licensees delinquent beyond the 30 day period specified in the Section shall not solicit, accept or receive credit, purchase or acquire alcoholic liquors, directly or indirectly from any other licensee, and no manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor shall knowingly grant or extend credit, sell, furnish or supply alcoholic liquors to any such delinquent retail liquor licensee. The Section also provides that the purchase price of all beer sold to a retail liquor licensee shall be paid by the retail liquor licensee in “cash” on or before delivery of the beer.

The 30 day merchandising credit period allowed by Section 5/6-5 commences the day immediately following the date of invoice and includes all successive days including Sundays and holidays to and including the 30th successive day (Regulation 100.90(b)). Note that the question of whether the invoice date or the actual date of delivery of the product is not addressed in the statute or rule. It is the opinion of the Commission that the date for computation of the credit period will be based upon the date of the invoice if that date and delivery are the same, and on the delivery date of the invoice is dated before the date of delivery.

Section 5/6-5 further provides that every manufacturer, importing distributor and distributor shall submit to this Commission, by Thursday of each week, a verified written list of the names and addresses of each retail liquor licensee purchasing spirits or wine from such entity which, on the first business day of that calendar week, was delinquent beyond the permissible merchandising credit period of 30 days. A verified written statement that no such retail liquor licensee was then delinquent beyond such permissible merchandising credit period should also be filed. Such entities shall also submit to the State Commission a verified written list of the names and respective addresses of each previously reported delinquent retail liquor licensee which has cured such delinquency by payment, not later than the second full business day following the day such delinquency was cured.

Such written reports shall be posted by the Commission in each of its offices, available for public inspection, not later than the day following receipt, and such reports constitute notice to every manufacturer, importing distributor and distributor of the information contained therein. Actual notice to such entities of the information contained in the posted reports, shall also constitute notice of the information.

In addition to other methods allowed by law, payment by check during the period for which merchandising credit may be extended shall be considered payment. All checks received in payment for alcoholic liquor shall be promptly deposited for collection (Regulation 100.90(c)). A post-dated check or a check dishonored on presentation for payment is not deemed to be payment.

Regulation 100.90 further states in relevant part that:

(e) where a bona fide dispute exists between the retailer and the wholesaler as to the fact of payment of a given sale, the sale itself shall not be sufficient grounds for considering the retailer delinquent;

(f) where a retailer pays a salesman, or other agent of the wholesaler, such payment is effective upon receipt of the money or check by the salesman or agent;

(g) even though a retailer is delinquent and not able to purchase any alcoholic liquors for cash, or otherwise, the retailer may purchase beer for cash;

(h) payment from a delinquent retailer after the first business day of the week and before a verified written statement of delinquency has been submitted entitles the manufacturer, importing distributor or distributor submitting to delete that retailer’s name from the list;

(i) determinations of delinquency shall be made by the Chairman, Executive Director or any individual authorized by them on the basis of the verified report of delinquency and any affidavits or counter-affidavits submitted, and any licensee objecting to the determination may make a written request for a hearing at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Commission; and

(j) a copy of any verified written list of delinquencies shall be simultaneously forwarded to the licensees listed therein by the manufacturer, importing distributor or distributor submitting such list.

Regulation 100.240 deals with transactions involving the use of checks and their equivalent and specifically prohibits the selling or furnishing of alcoholic liquor at retail to any person on credit or on a passbook, or order on a store, or in exchange for any goods, wares or merchandise, or in payment for any services rendered. But the use of money orders, traveler’s checks, drafts or checks or the equivalent of any of them not be considered the extension of credit so long as same are not postdated, and promptly deposited and collected in due course. “funds, provided the transfer is initiated by an irrevocable payment order on or before delivery of the alcoholic liquor.

IV. Procedures

A. Extension Of Credit

Distributors may extend credit to retailers for the purchase of alcoholic liquors for a period of time not to exceed 30 days, except that payment for beer purchases by the retailer be made in cash or its equivalent, on or before the delivery of the beer.

B. Methods Of Payment

A retailer has not been discharged from its obligation to the distributor until the distributor has been paid in cash or its equivalent. The following are considered as cash equivalents:

(1) Checks, including money orders, traveler’s checks, drafts, certified checks, cashier’s checks or teller’s checks so long as they are not post-dated, and if honored by the retailer’s bank in the ordinary course of business. The distributor’s obligation is to promptly deposit checks for collection.

(1) Electronic fund transfers provided the transfer of funds is initiated by an irrevocable payment order on or before delivery of the alcoholic liquor. In computing the 30-day period, if the funds are withdrawn from the retailer’s account on the 30th day, the fact that the funds are not deposited into the distributor’s account until the 31st day is immaterial.

(3) Credit cards may be used to purchase wine and spirit products. Any widely recognized credit card, including but not limited to Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discovery and Diners Club, may be utilized. [Sec. 5/6-19, Sales on Credit – Exceptions as to Clubs and Motels, which controlled credit relationships between retailers and consumers was repealed by P.A. 90-432, eff. 1/1/98. The final sentence of Sec. 5/6-19 stated, “(T)hat nothing herein shall be construed to prevent payment by credit card or other credit device for the purchase of liquor in the original package or container for consumption off the premises.]

C. Calculation of Payment Period

The first day of calculation begins with the day after the date of delivery (invoice date) and includes each successive date subsequent, including Sundays and holidays, to the 30 day limit. In the event that the delivery of the product is subsequent to the invoice date, the actual delivery date will be the first day for the purpose of calculation. The date of delinquency shall be the first day after the 30 day period, or the 31st day. Receipt of any cash equivalent by a salesman or other agent of the distributor, is considered as being effective immediately upon receipt. For purchases of wine and spirits, a post-dated check which is cleared prior to the end of the 30 day credit period, including any properly disclosed finance charges, is considered to be a valid payment. Also, an “NSF,” void, or stop payment check, for purchases of wine and spirits, which is properly replaced with cash or cash equivalent before the end of the 30 day period, including any properly disclosed finance and bank charges, is considered to be valid payment.

D. Additional Finance and Bank Charges

Finance charges on credit issued and bank charges for NSF, void, or stop-payment checks are considered to be standard business practices. Distributors may include finance charges, other usual and customary charges in the industry and bank charges provided:

(1) A statement is printed on the original invoice which is delivered to the retailer at the time the merchandise is received indicating such finance and bank charges shall be assessed, with a statement specifying the terms and amounts of charges imposed.

(2) Finance and bank charges must be within prescribed legal limits. Any such finance or bank charges which have been properly disclosed to the retailer are considered to be part of the cost of the merchandise as of the invoice date, and therefore the entire amount, including any finance or bank charges, must be paid before the retailer can be considered to be non-delinquent.

(3) If a distributor engages in the practice of adding a finance or bank charge, such charges must be added to all accounts, and may not be waived for any customer.

(4) All provisions of Section 5/6-5 remain effective whether or not the distributor chooses to impose finance or bank charges.

A retailer making payments via electronic transfer of funds may not charge the distributor for the costs of such transfer, nor may a distributor charge the retailer for the distributor’s bank charges for electronic transfer. Such transfers are considered to be for the benefit of each, and therefore as other acceptable payment methods are available, each party need not bear the other party’s burden of such transfers.

E. Delinquency List

Section 5/6-5 of the Illinois Liquor Control Act and Regulation 100.90 provide for the existence and maintenance of the delinquency list. The general parameters of the list are stated above, and the Statute and Regulation should be consulted for additional information.

Although being listed as delinquent is not a violation of the Liquor Control Act, purchasing while delinquent is. For this reason, particular attention will be paid to those licensees who have been delinquent for an extended period of time, and the Commission will conduct investigations into licensees delinquent beyond the 30 days allowable on a case-by-case basis.

F. Bona Fide Disputes

Any party to the transaction may request a dispute be determined to be “bona fide.” This Commission shall, on a case-by-case basis, be the determiner of whether the circumstances surrounding a commercial transaction require the retailer be placed on the delinquent list (100.90(i)). This Commission, upon submission of the matter to it, in sufficient time to conduct its investigation before the expiration of the 30-day period, shall look at the facts surrounding the matter, including the retail liquor licensee’s oral or written statements, oral or written statements of the distributor, documentation, etc., questioning the payments, or lack thereof. The Commission cautions all parties that an oral submission of a dispute may be a wholly insufficient basis for the Commission to make such a requested determination. Documentation is the suggested method of submission, which may include invoices, affidavits, or other written or tangible items. If the Commission initially determines that a bona fide dispute does or does not exist, the licensee which continues to maintain the opposite position shall be entitled to a formal hearing, upon written request.

G. “Common Ownership”

Rule 100.90 (a) states that licenses which are owned in “common ownership” will all be declared delinquent if one such license is declared delinquent. Neither the statute nor rule defines the concept of “common ownership.”

The Commission has reviewed the following Illinois statutes which deal with joint or common forms of ownership:

35 ILCS 5/ Illinois Income Tax Act Illinois Compiled Statutes, Revenue, Illinois Income Tax Act ARTICLE 15. DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF INTERPRETATION. (35 ILCS 5/1501

Common ownership in the case of corporations is the direct or indirect control or ownership of more than 50% of the outstanding voting stock of the persons carrying on unitary business activity.

30 ILCS 168/ Tobacco Product Manufacturers' Escrow Act Illinois Compiled Statutes, Finance, Tobacco Product Manufacturers' Escrow Act" Affiliate" means a person who directly or indirectly owns or controls, is owned or controlled by, or is under common ownership or control with, another person. Solely for purposes of this definition, the terms "owns", "is owned", and "ownership" mean ownership of an equity interest, or the equivalent thereof, of 10% or more, and the term "person" means an individual, partnership, committee, association, corporation, or any other organization or group of persons.

625 ILCS 5/ Illinois Vehicle Code Illinois Compiled Statutes, Vehicles, Illinois Vehicle Code

ARTICLE I. DEALERS (625 ILCS 5/5‑101) Sec. 5‑101.

(b) An application for a motor vehicle financing affiliate's license must be filed with the Secretary of State, duly verified by oath, on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State and shall contain all of the following:

(3) A list of the business organization's officers, directors, members, and shareholders having a 10% or greater ownership interest in the business, providing the residential address for each person listed.

765 ILCS 1005/ Joint Tenancy Act Illinois Compiled Statutes, Property, Joint Tenancy Act

Sec. 2.(a) When a deposit in any bank or trust company transacting business in this State has been made or shall hereafter be made in the names of 2 or more persons payable to them when the account is opened or thereafter, the deposit or any part thereof or any interest or dividend thereon may be paid to any one of those persons whether the other or others be living or not, and when an agreement permitting such payment is signed by all those persons at the time the account is opened or thereafter the receipt or acquittance of the person so paid shall be valid and sufficient discharge from all parties to the bank for any payments so made. (b) When shares of stock, bonds or other evidences of indebtedness or of interest are or have been issued or registered by any corporation, association or other entity in the names of 2 or more persons as joint tenants with the right of survivorship, the corporation, association or other entity and their respective transfer agents may, upon the death of any one of the registered owners, transfer those shares of stock, bonds, or other evidences of indebtedness or of interest to or upon the order of the survivor or survivors of the registered owners, without inquiry into the existence, validity or effect of any will or other instrument in writing or the right of the survivor or survivors to receive the property, and without liability to any other person who might claim an interest in or a right to receive all or a portion of the property so transferred.

(765 ILCS 1005/3) Sec. 3.

Except as otherwise provided in this Act, all joint obligations and covenants shall be taken and held to be joint and several obligations and covenants. (Source: Laws 1919, p. 633.) (765 ILCS 1005/4) Sec. 4. If any person shall assume and exercise exclusive ownership over, or take away, destroy, lessen in value, or otherwise injure or abuse any property held in joint tenancy or tenancy in common , the party aggrieved shall have his civil action for the injury in the same manner as he would have if such joint tenancy or tenancy in common did not exist. (Source: Laws 1935, p. 936.)

The Commission, having considered the foregoing statutory authority, and the ownership threshold established by the Liquor Control Act, concludes that for the purposes of determining whether licenses will be declared delinquent under Sec. 5/6-5 and Rule 100.90, that “common ownership” shall be any ownership interest of “more than 5%” of the total ownership interests in such licenses.

G.H. Bankruptcy of Retailer

In the event any bankruptcy proceeding is instituted by or against a retail liquor licensee, the “automatic stay” provision of federal bankruptcy law prohibits a change in the financial circumstance of that licensee. Simply stated, this means that the retailer shall not be reported “delinquent” under Sec. 5/6-5 of the Act; if the retailer has already been reported delinquent, that delinquency shall not be effective. The retailer shall not be required to pay any outstanding bill for alcoholic liquors, and no attempts to collect such a debt are valid. (See In Re: William Tell, Inc., Bankrupt. William Tell Ii, Inc., Appellee, v. State of Illinois Liquor Control Commission, Appellant, United States District Court For The Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, 38 B.R. 327; 1983 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 16665; 11 Collier Bankr. Cas. 2d (MB) 235, May 26, 1983)

In order for the retailer to continue to purchase alcoholic liquors, the following steps are necessary:

A) Filing of the Bankruptcy petition

B) Filing of a Motion to Stay the application of Sec. 5/6-5

C) Entry of an Order by the Bankruptcy Court directing:

(1) That the application of Sec. 5/6-5 against the retailer is stayed.

(2) That the retailer shall be allowed to purchase alcoholic liquors “for cash.”

D) Service of Motion and Order upon the Commission and the Wine and Spirits Distributors of Illinois.

TPP-6 Cooperative Purchasing Agreements

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby unrelated retail licensees may enter into cooperative purchasing agreements.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission to allow unrelated retailers to enter into cooperative purchasing agreements.

III. Background, Statutes, Regulations

235 ILCS 5/5-1(b) and 5/5-1(d) define the distributor and retailer licensee. The former is allowed to make wholesale purchase and store alcoholic liquors, and to sell same to licensees, as permitted by law. The latter is allowed to sell and offer for sale at retail, only on the premises specified in the license, alcoholic liquor for use or consumption, but not for resale.

Section 5/6-5 prohibits retailers from accepting or distributors from giving anything “of value.” The general treatment of the “tied-house” and “of value” cases in Trade Practice Policy 1 is adopted herein. Section 5/6-5 and Regulation 100.90 deal with extending credit to retail licensees.

Section 5/6-8 requires manufacturers, importing distributors or foreign importers to keep accurate records of all alcoholic liquors manufactured, distributed, sold, used, or delivered in the State during each month, showing to whom sold, and shall furnish a copy thereof to this Commission. Regulation 100.130(d) further requires manufacturers, distributors, importing distributors and foreign importers, to keep records giving the name, license number and expiration date, and address of each purchaser of alcoholic liquors and information concerning each purchase, including invoice number, date and sale, amount of sale and date of payment thereof.

Pursuant to Section 5/6-9 manufacturers, non-resident dealers, distributors, importing distributors, or foreign importers owning or controlling trade marks, brands or names of any alcoholic liquor shall register same with this Commission, including the name of each person to whom such manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor, or foreign importer grants the right to sell at wholesale, specifying the trade mark, brand or name of alcoholic liquor to which such right is granted, the geographical area(s) and the period(s) of time for which such right is granted. No person to whom such right is granted shall sell at wholesale outside the geographical area for which such person holds such right, nor sell such alcoholic liquor within such geographical area to a retail licensee, if the premises specified in the retailer’s license are located outside the geographical area. No manufacturer, importing distributor, distributor, non-resident dealer, foreign importer shall sell or deliver any alcoholic liquor manufactured or distributed for resale, unless the person to whom such package is sold or delivered is authorized by law to receive such package.

See also Regulation 100.60.

Section 5/7A-3 states that it is unlawful for any person to store any alcoholic liquors with or deliver any alcoholic liquors to any warehouseman who has not received a certificate of registration from the Department of Revenue.

Regulation 100.250, regarding transfer of alcohol, states that the holder of a license for the sale of alcoholic liquor at retail on the premises specified in the license, for use or consumption, is restricted to sell from the licensed premises only and is not permitted to sell, purchase or transfer such alcoholic liquor to any other licensed premises.

IV. Procedures

To enter into a cooperative purchasing agreement, retail licensees shall comply with the following guidelines:

1. All purchases must be invoiced and delivered to each individual retailer and each individual retailer must pay the distributor for its own merchandise.

2. Two or more retail vendors may agree, as evidenced by a memorandum in writing, that one or more of them, or another designated person, shall be the agent or agents of each of them for the purpose of ordering distilled spirits, wines or beer, from wholesalers.

3. The agreement shall provide that orders placed by the nominee shall be made in the capacity as agent for each of the parties.

4. The agreement shall provide that upon completion of the sale by the wholesaler, title to the merchandise shall vest in each party to the agreement, in accordance with the proportionate share of each in the order.

5. The agreement shall be signed and dated by each party to the agreement, including the nominee agent(s).

6. New or additional entities may become members of the venture by signing and dating the agreement; however such new or additional party may share in a cooperative order only in respect to orders placed subsequent to becoming a party to the agreement.

7. A record of disposition of products by wholesalers and receipts to each member retailer must be maintained.

8. All retailers must be located within the distributor’s registered geographic territory.

9. Physical delivery of the alcoholic liquor purchased by the group must be made to each individual retailer’s licensed premises, and not to a central location. Warehousing and transfer of alcoholic liquor are not allowed.

10. Although quantity discounts are permitted, a distributor is not required to offer such quantity discounts. However, if such discounts are offered by a distributor, they must be offered across the entire market which the distributor serves. A distributor cannot refuse to offer the same quantity discount to the cooperative group as offered to any individual retailers, unless proof of substantial increased cost of providing such discount (e.g. excess actual delivery costs) can be established by the distributor.

11. If the distributor makes sales under the 30 day credit rule, and any member of the cooperative purchasing group should become delinquent, the distributor may continue to make sales to the remaining members of the group as a whole and provide the non-delinquent members with quantity discounts.

TPP-7 Point Of Sale Materials - Manufacturer To Distributor

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby manufacturers may provide point-of-sale advertising and materials to distributors.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that manufacturers may provide point-of-sale materials to distributors free of charge. Distributors may also purchase point-of-sale materials from manufacturers, but any purchase by a distributor or importing distributor from a manufacturer or a manufacturer’s designated supplier shall be voluntary and the manufacturer may not require the distributor or the importing distributor to purchase signs or advertising materials from the manufacturer or the manufacturer’s designated supplier.

III. Background

"Point-of-sale" materials include, any signs, advertising materials and consumer advertising specialties.

Section 5/6-5 of the Illinois Liquor Control Act is concerned only with something "of value" being remitted to the retail licensee, therefore it has no application here.

IV. Procedure

It is the policy of this Commission that between manufacturers and distributors:

(a) Free point-of-sale materials may be provided by manufacturers to distributors, without limit on the amounts provided;

(b) Pursuant to Sec. 5/6-6, distributors may purchase inside and outside signs, except permanent outside signs, as well as advertising materials and consumer advertising specialties from manufacturers. Distributors are prohibited from providing retailers with any signs purchased from manufacturers, which is not in compliance with the mandates of Sec. 5/6-6.

(c) Distributor may purchase point-of-sale materials; such purchases shall be voluntary and the manufacturer may not require the distributor or the importing distributor to purchase signs or advertising materials from the manufacturer or the manufacturer’s designated supplier; Point-of-sale materials purchased by distributors may be purchased at a value below the cost to manufacturers.

TPP-8 Reserved

TPP-9 Signage And Other Advertising Materials

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures regarding the nature, content, and displaying of signage and other advertising materials given to retailers by manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors and the usage of such signs and materials by the retailers.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission to allow both inside and outside signs, permanent and temporary, and other advertising materials to be displayed in and about a retailer’s licensed premises; subject to limitations set forth in Sec. 5/6-6 (P.A. 90-655, eff. 7-30-98.).

III. Statute

This Commission’s Trade Practice Policy TPP-1 on the “Of Value” Standard is incorporated herein by reference. The Statute provides in relevant part that a manufacturer, distributor, or importing distributor may furnish, give, lend or rent and erect, install, repair and maintain to or for any retail licensee, for use at any one time in or about or in connection with a retail establishment on which the products of the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor are sold, the following signs and inside advertising materials as authorized in subparts (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv):

(i) Permanent outside signs shall be limited to one outside sign, per brand, in place and in use at any one time, costing not more than $893, exclusive of erection, installation, repair and maintenance costs, and permit fees and shall bear only the manufacturer’s name, brand name, trade name, slogans, markings, trademark, or other symbols commonly associated with and generally used in identifying the product including, but not limited to, “cold beer,” “on tap,” “carry out,” and “packaged liquor.”

(ii) Temporary outside signs shall be limited to one temporary outside sign per brand. Examples of temporary outside signs are banners, flags, pennants, streamers, and other items of a temporary and non-permanent nature. Each temporary outside sign must include the manufacturer's name, brand name, trade name, slogans, markings, trademark, or other symbol commonly associated with and generally used in identifying the product. Temporary outside signs may also include, for example, the product, price, packaging, date or dates of a promotion and an announcement of a retail licensee's specific sponsored event if the temporary outside sign is intended to promote a product, and provided that the announcement of the retail licensee's event and the product promotion are held simultaneously. However, temporary outside signs may not include names, slogans, markings, or logos that relate to the retailer. Nothing in this subpart (ii) shall prohibit a distributor or importing distributor from bearing the cost of creating or printing a temporary outside sign for the retail licensee's specific sponsored event or from bearing the cost of creating or printing a temporary sign for a retail licensee containing, for example, community goodwill expressions, regional sporting event announcements, or seasonal messages, provided that the primary purpose of the temporary outside sign is to highlight, promote, or advertise the product. In addition, temporary outside signs provided by the manufacturer to the distributor or importing distributor may also include, for example, subject to the limitations of this Section, preprinted community goodwill expressions, sporting event announcements, seasonal messages, and manufacturer promotional announcements. However, a distributor or importing distributor shall not bear the cost of such manufacturer preprinted signs.

(iii) Permanent inside signs, whether visible from the outside or the inside of the premises, include, but are not limited to: alcohol lists and menus that may include names, slogans, markings, or logos that relate to the retailer; neons; illuminated signs; clocks; table lamps; mirrors; tap handles; decalcomanias; window painting; and window trim. All permanent inside signs in place and in use at any one time shall cost in the aggregate not more than $2000 per manufacturer. A permanent inside sign must include the manufacturer's name, brand name, trade name, slogans, markings, trademark, or other symbol commonly associated with and generally used in identifying the product. However, permanent inside signs may not include names, slogans, markings, or logos that relate to the retailer. For the purpose of this subpart (iii), all permanent inside signs may be displayed in an adjacent courtyard or patio commonly referred to as a "beer garden" that is a part of the retailer's licensed premises.

(iv) Temporary inside signs shall include, but are not limited to, lighted chalk boards, acrylic table tent beverage or hors d'oeuvre list holders, banners, flags, pennants, streamers, and inside advertising materials such as posters, placards, bowling sheets, table tents, inserts for acrylic table tent beverage or hors d'oeuvre list holders, sports schedules, or similar printed or illustrated materials; however, such items, for example, as coasters, trays, napkins, glassware and cups shall not be deemed to be inside signs or advertising materials and may only be sold to retailers. All temporary inside signs and inside advertising materials in place and in use at any one time shall cost in the aggregate not more than $325 per manufacturer. Nothing in this subpart (iv) prohibits a distributor or importing distributor from paying the cost of printing or creating any temporary inside banner or inserts for acrylic table tent beverage or hors d'oeuvre list holders for a retail licensee, provided that the primary purpose for the banner or insert is to highlight, promote, or advertise the product. For the purpose of this subpart (iv), all temporary inside signs and inside advertising materials may be displayed in an adjacent courtyard or patio commonly referred to as a "beer garden" that is a part of the retailer's licensed premises.”

The restrictions contained in the section do not apply to signs, or promotional or advertising materials furnished by manufacturers, distributors or importing distributors to a government owned or operated facility holding a retailer’s license, as described in Section 5/6-5, nor to airplane licenses.

IV. Procedures

Retailers are allowed to have one permanent and one temporary sign per product brand displayed on the exterior of the licensed premises. Permanent signs are those made of wood, glass, metal, mirrors, neon, or other materials reasonably considered to be of a substantially permanent nature. Temporary signs include banners, flags, pennants, streamers, and other items of a temporary and non-permanent nature. Each sign must bear the logo, trademark, etc. of the manufacturer of the brand and be displayed on the exterior of the premises, such as on the building itself, on fences, in parking lots, or upon other structures reasonably considered to be a part of the realty upon which the licensed premises operates.

Signs painted on outside walls are considered exterior signs. Signs attached to the inside of a window but facing toward the outside are considered interior signs. Signs attached to the outside of a window are considered exterior signs. The concept of two signs per brand means that each brand can be represented by only one permanent and one temporary sign, however, there is no limit on how many times the brand name or brand logo can be contained on each sign. A permanently affixed two-sided banner is considered one sign. If a brand is contained on a permanent sign at least once, it can only appear on one other temporary banner, and vice-versa. Multi-logo signs count as one sign per brand for every brand depicted thereon. If such a sign is displayed, no brand name, trade name, etc., on the sign can be contained on any other exterior sign of similar type on the premises. A two sided banner, flag, pennant, poster, or streamer displaying the brand name on both sides is considered one outside temporary sign, A multiple sided or wrap around sign or signs affixed to a pole, fence, or other stationary object displaying the same brand name on both sides shall also be considered one outside temporary sign.

Signage on fences are considered outside signage. Umbrellas in beer gardens and on sidewalk cafes are considered inside signs and subject to the inside sign dollar limitations. Umbrellas in beer gardens do not affect the value limitations or one sign per brand limitations of outside signage.

Inflatable signs are not allowable as the value of such signs will exceed the value limitations of so long as they comply with the provisions and limitations of Section 5/6-6. Special event licensees may display inflatable signs, and there are no other restrictions on exterior signs displayed by a special event licensee, if the event is not held on a currently licensed retail premises.

If a location has been issued more than one license, it is allowed as many exterior signs per brand as it has accesses from the outside. Conversely, if none of the licensed premises has direct access from the outside, no exterior signs are permitted.

Temporary inside signs shall also include product displays such as display racks, bins, barrels or casts or similar items the primary function of which is to temporarily hold and display alcoholic beverages. All product displays must bear conspicuous and substantial advertising matter containing the brand, name of the manufacturer or manufacturers’ logos, permanently inscribed or securely affixed. The cost of such product display shall be includable in the aggregate cost per manufacturer under dollar limitations for temporary inside signs. Temporary inside signs may include names, slogans, markings or logos that relate to the retailer.

TPP-10 Signage Dollar Limits

(eff. 01-01-11)

Pursuant to P.A. 89-529, eff. 7-19-96, the language of Section 5/6-6 was amended to increase the so-called "signage dollar limits" to the levels reported hereafter. These dollar limits are to be adjusted annually by the Commission, using a "cost adjustment factor" to periodically update the dollar limitations prescribed in subparts (i), (iii) and (iv). The Commission establishes the adjusted dollar limitation on an annual basis beginning in January, 1997, and annually every year thereafter. The term "cost adjustment factor" means a percentage equal to the change in the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index or 5%, whichever is greater.

As of January 1, 2011, the following limits apply to the cost of signs and other advertising materials, which manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors provide to retailers:

PERMANENT OUTSIDE SIGNS: $ 1,856.94

Permanent inside signs: $ 4,159.11

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 679.48

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-10)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,768.51

Permanent inside signs: $ 3,961.06

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 647.13

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-09)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,684.30

Permanent inside signs: $ 3,772.44

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 616.31

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-08)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,604.46

Permanent inside signs: $ 3,593.03

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 587.08

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-07)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,528.06

Permanent inside signs: $ 3,421.93

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 559.12

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-06)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,455.30

Permanent inside signs: $ 3,258.99

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 532.50

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-05)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,386.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 3,103.80

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 507.15

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-04)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,320.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 2,956.00

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 483.00

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-03)

Permanent outside signs: $1,320

Permanent inside signs: $2,956

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $483

These figures are exclusive of erection, installation, repair and maintenance costs, permit fees, wherever applicable:

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-02)

Permanent outside signs: $1,197

Permanent inside signs: $2,681

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $438

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-02)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,197.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 2,681.00

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 438.00

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-01)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,140.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 2,553.00

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 415.00

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-00)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,086.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 2,431.00

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 395.00

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-99)

Permanent outside signs: $ 1,034.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 2,315.00

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 376.00

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-98)

Permanent outside signs: $ 985.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 2,205.00

Temporary inside signs

And other advertising

Materials $ 359.00

Signage dollar limits (eff. 01-01-97)

Permanent outside signs: $ 938.00

Permanent inside signs: $ 2,100.00

Temporary inside signs and other advertising materials $ 341.00

TPP-11 Consumer Coupons and Rebates

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby coupons/rebates may be provided by manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to consumers through retail licensees.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that coupons/rebates may be given to consumers so long as such promotions are offered to similarly situated retailers offering off-premise sales in the manufacturer’s, distributor’s or importing distributor’s geographical areas; on a non-discriminatory basis, in direct relation to the amount of product purchased.

III. Background

Section 5/6-5 of the Illinois Liquor Control Act and this Commission’s Trade Practice Policy TP-1 on the “Of Value” Standard are incorporated herein by reference. The usual manner in which manufacturers, distributors, and importing distributors provide consumer rebates or refunds involves the use of coupons. There are two general types of coupons: “mail-in” coupons, also known as “rebate/redemption” coupons, and “cash register” coupons, also known as “instant refund” coupons. To use the “mail-in” the consumer purchases the product for full price from the retailer and then mails the coupon to the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor, with proof of purchase. The manufacturer, distributor, importing distributor or a designated third-party mails a rebate check directly to the consumer. To use the “cash register” coupon the consumer presents the coupon to the retailer and receives an immediate reduction in the purchase price from the retailer. The retailer forwards the coupon to the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor, or its third-party agent, which directly reimburses the retailer for the value of the coupon.

Generally, the coupon is an acceptable method of brand promotion, however, such promotion must be done in such a manner so that unfair financial advantage is not given to any similarly situated retailer or group of retailers in a geographical area. Providing an unfair financial advantage or distributing the coupons in a discriminatory manner would allow the retailer using the coupons to receive something “of value” over retailers which had not been provided with the coupons, since customers would generally prefer to purchase an identical brand from the retailer with coupons, resulting in a price saving to the consumer. Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors must provide similarly situated retailers purchasing product with coupons in relation to the quantity purchased. Thus, one retailer cannot receive a disproportionate number of coupons per case of product, while others receive fewer per case. The practice of unequal distribution shall be considered a discriminatory discounting program by this Commission. The Commission does recognize quantity pricing schemes as between on-and-off premise establishments, and such a distinction will be applied to retail coupon programs.

IV. Procedure

Due to the potential for abuse, including fraud, the redemption of coupons without actual purchase of product, and other “of value” situations, the use of the “point-of-sale instant refund” coupon is not allowed.

Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may conduct coupon programs as follows:

1. The program must be through the manufacturer, distributor, importing distributor or a third party, usually a clearinghouse; no retailer redemption shall be allowed.

2. “Mail-in” coupons shall require proof of purchase with a dated, retail-specific receipt.

3. “Instant “ coupons shall be reimbursed to the retailer only with substantiation through documentation that there has been sufficient purchase of product to warrant the reimbursement.

4. Coupons cannot be retailer specific.

5. Coupons may be available in print media (newspapers, magazines etc.) but not by direct mail.

6. Coupons may be available only to adults 21 years of age or older.

7. No purchase requirements may be imposed.

8. Coupons must contain an expiration date.

9. Commission’s rules and regulations prohibiting the giving away of alcoholic liquor for a commercial purpose or in connection with the sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products shall apply. (Regulation 100.280)

10. Coupons must be made available to all similarly situated retailers in similarly situated marketplaces in the distributors designated geographical area.

The Commission realizes that certain larger retailers may wish to have a uniform coupon/rebate program which is regional, state-or-nation-wide. While the Commission does not wish to dictate whether such business practices are undertaken by any retail licensee, it recognizes that certain "of value” situations may come into play with such programs, and mandatory memberships, enrollments, or monthly fees may exclude some or all suppliers from participation (Section 5/6-5 and 5/6-6).

Coupon programs for a specific retail licensee are allowable on the following additional bases:

1. Manufacturer, distributor, and importing distributor coupons may appear in retailer-specific promotional advertisements, however, the coupons must be capable of being redeemed at any retailer.

2. The program may not be compulsory; if manufacturers, distributors or importing distributors wish to use the retailer system, or the system of the third-party’s with which the retailer has contracted, such participation must be on a voluntary basis.

3. Failure of a manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor to participate in the third-party’s retailer program shall not preclude such manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor from offering its own coupon program at said retailer’s premise.

4. Any booklets, leaflets, or other literature containing the manufacturer’s, distributor’s or importing distributor’s products, and describing or promoting the coupon/rebate program shall not be retailer specific. This requirement does not prohibit retailer specific advertisements, flyers or circulars which are paid for by the retailer, and which advertise, promote or contain the retailer’s coupon or rebate for a particular manufacturer’s, distributor’s or importing distributor’s alcoholic liquor products.

5. All checks in reimbursement for coupons shall not be retailer specific, nor shall any such checks which are sent to or to be used by consumers, be redeemable only at such retailer’s place of business.

6. Although coupons may combine the purchase of alcoholic products with other products, such programs may not require that the other items be individual retailers specific, so that the purchase of an alcoholic product which would entitle the purchaser to a specific non-alcoholic items involves items found only at one retailer would operate as an exclusion of other retailers, and would be the giving of something “of value” to such retailer.

Section 5/6-5 and 5/6-6 of the Liquor Control Act should be consulted for additional “of value” signage and inside advertising material limitations.

TPP-12 Hotel/Motel Mini Bars

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby hotels and motels possessing retail liquor licenses may sell alcoholic beverages from “mini bars.”

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission to allow hotels and motels possessing retail liquor licenses to sell alcoholic beverages from “mini bars.”

III. Procedures

To sell alcoholic beverages from mini bars in hotels and motels, a retail liquor licensee must comply with the following:

1. The licensee must possess valid local and state retail liquor licenses.

2. The licensee’s management must be responsible for determining the eligibility of guests to purchase alcoholic liquor.

3. The licensee’s management must be responsible for establishing a method of control to prevent the use of the machine when it is unlawful to sell or dispense alcoholic liquor as established by local ordinance.

4. The licensee’s management must assist an agent of the Commission to examine or have access to the mini bars at any reasonable time.

5. The operation of the mini bar must comply with all provisions of both the Illinois Liquor Control Act, the Rules and Regulations of the Commission, and local liquor control ordinances.

6. Failure to implement or maintain the processes and procedures required herein shall result in the withdrawal of permission to operate the mini bar.

TPP-13 Riverboat Gaming Operations

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby alcoholic liquor dispensing aspects of riverboat gaming operations may be regulated.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission, and that of the Illinois Gaming Board, that the alcoholic liquor dispensing aspects of riverboat gaming operations shall be regulated by this Commission.

III. Background

The principal business function of a riverboat gaming operation is gaming; however, alcohol sales are a tangential business function of such gaming operations (Gaming Regulation 9000.100). The Illinois Liquor Control Commission has exclusive jurisdiction over all aspects of liquor licensing of riverboat premises, with the exception of the determination of hours of operation (235 ILCS 5/6-30; Gaming Regulations 3000.900 & 3000.930). Riverboat gaming operations are subject to the “Happy Hour” limitations (235 ILCS 5/6-28; Regulation 100.280).

5/6-30. Riverboat Gambling Excursions - Sale and Consumption of Alcoholic Liquor

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, the Illinois Gaming Board shall have exclusive authority to establish the hours for sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor on board a riverboat during riverboat gambling excursions conducted in accordance with the Riverboat Gambling Act.

235 ILCS 5/5-1(g) states the parameters of a boat liquor license “to allow the sale of alcoholic liquor in individual drinks, on any passenger boat regularly operated as a common carrier on navigable waters in this State, which boat maintains a public dining room or restaurant thereon.”

A recent amendment to the Riverboat Gambling Act states:

230 ILCS 10/5 Sec. 5. Gaming Board.

(b) The Board shall have general responsibility for the implementation of this Act. Its duties include, without limitation, the following:

(18) To authorize a licensee to sell or serve alcoholic liquors, wine or beer as defined in the Liquor Control Act of 1934 on board a riverboat and to have exclusive authority to establish the hours for sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor on board a riverboat, notwithstanding any provision of the Liquor Control Act of 1934 or any local ordinance, and regardless of whether the riverboat makes excursions. The establishment of the hours for sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor on board a riverboat is an exclusive power and function of the State. A home rule unit may not establish the hours for sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor on board a riverboat. This amendatory Act of 1991 is a denial and limitation of home rule powers and functions under subsection (h) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution.

(19) After consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to establish binding emergency orders upon the concurrence of a majority of the members of the Board regarding the navigability of water, relative to excursions, in the event of extreme weather conditions, acts of God or other extreme circumstances.

This statutory change has created something of a dichotomy since the State liquor license allows service of alcohol only during navigation, while the State gambling law does not require riverboats which have liquor licenses to navigate.

This dichotomy was resolved with the passage of H.B.4462, which was signed into law as P.A. 92-0672, (235 ILCS 5/5-1)g)) which provides:

(g) A boat license shall allow the sale of alcoholic liquor in individual drinks, on any passenger boat regularly operated as a common carrier on navigable waters in this State or on any riverboat operated under the Riverboat Gambling Act, which boat or riverboat maintains a public dining room or restaurant thereon.

1) Riverboat gaming operations may not provide free alcoholic beverages to patrons, nor promote activities which encourage over consumption;

2) Private functions must be paid for at full market value by a “bona fide” third party which is not directly or indirectly related to or associated with the riverboat gaming operation licensee;

3) Meal package promotions are allowable on the land based operations associated with the riverboat gaming operation as long as the service of alcoholic liquor is part of the meal package and the meal package is purchased at a reasonable price by the patron.

4) Riverboat gaming operations fulfill the requirement of having a public dining room if such operations include a land based dining facility (235 ILCS 5/5-1(g)).

TPP-14 Standards For Approval Of Test Marketing; Tastings And Product Sampling

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby the test marketing, tasting and product sampling of alcoholic liquor products may be conducted.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that test marketing, tasting and product sampling of products shall be permitted, subject to the following procedures.

III. Background

Section 100.280 Giving Away of Alcoholic Liquors

a) No licensee, individual, partnership or corporation shall give away any alcoholic liquor for commercial purposes or in connection with the sale of non‑alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non‑alcoholic products.

b) No licensee, individual, partnership, or corporation shall advertise or promote in any way, whether on or off-licensed premises, any of the practices prohibited under subsection (a) above. This includes, but is not limited to, advertisements using the words “free” or “complimentary” with alcoholic liquor.

c) Subsection (a) above shall not apply to test marketing or tasting.

(Source: Amended at 21 Ill. Reg. 5542, effective May 1, 1997)

Section 100.10 Definitions

The following words or phrases are defined as follows:

“Tasting” means a supervised presentation of alcoholic products to the public at an off-premise licensed retailer for the purpose of disseminating product information and education, with consumption of alcoholic products being an incidental part thereof. Only products registered with the Commission may be tasted in the following amounts: Distilled Spirits 1/4 oz., Wine 1 oz., and Beer 2 oz.; notice of the tasting may be given. Tasting must be done by a licensee and/or registered tasting representative in accordance with Section 100.40.

“Test Marketing” means to test new products or products unfamiliar to the sampler through a marketing firm or the like.

Section 100.40 Registration of Tasting Representatives

a) Any non-licensee wishing to conduct a tasting as defined in Section 100.10 must register with the Commission. A registered tasting representative acts as the agent of the licensee.

b) Registration is fulfilled by submitting a form including the name of the person, address, licensee representing, if applicable, and any other questions deemed appropriate and necessary, and a $100.00 administrative fee payable annually to the Commission.

c) The registration identification, or a copy thereof, must be available for inspection during any tasting.

d) Any applicant must meet all eligibility requirements as stated in 235 ILCS 5/6-2.

(Source: Amended at 23 Ill. Reg. 3787, effective March 15, 1999)

5/6-31. Product Sampling.

(a) Retailer, distributor, importing distributor, manufacturer and nonresident dealer licensees may conduct product sampling for consumption at a licensed retail location. Up to 3 samples, consisting of no more than (i) 1/4 ounce of distilled spirits, (ii) one ounce of wine, or (iii) 2 ounces of beer may be served to a consumer in one day.(Source: P.A. 90-432, eff. 1/1/98; 90-626,eff. 1-1-99)

From the general prohibition against the giving away of alcoholic liquors, it is the Commission’s position that “test marketing” and tasting of products, including those of an alcoholic nature, are valuable research tools in the development, production and ultimate marketing of products. With the creation of the “tasting” it became apparent that there were individuals and companies which were providing services to the liquor industry who were dispensing alcoholic beverages to the public without being licensed themselves, or being direct employees or agents of licensees. It was to deal with this situation that the “Tasting Representative” was created.

IV. Procedures

Please note that the regulatory “sampling” has been removed from this trade practice policy. With the passage of P.A. 90-432, and the creation of the statutory “product sampling” the “sampling” activities authorized by rule were made moot. The “sampling” section of Regulation 100.10 was thereafter repealed. There is both statutory and regulatory authority for the commercial consumption of alcohol for which payment by the consumer has not been made. The major distinction between these types of consumption is the nature of the premises upon which the activity may be conducted: the “tasting” may be conducted upon “off-premises” licensed retail premises, while the “product sampling” may be conducted upon any retail licensed premises.

From the general prohibition against the giving away of alcoholic liquors for commercial purposes, it is the Commission's position that product sampling and tasting of alcoholic liquor products are valuable research tools in the marketing of products and the creation of brand loyalty. This Commission will grant approval to the test marketing of alcoholic products, on a case-by-case basis, only upon written request, stating with specificity the parameters of the testing, and to include at a minimum the following information.

Test marketing requirements:

Manufacturers, Distributors and Importing Distributors:

1. The name and address of the marketing firm conducting the test marketing.

2. The location where the testing will be conducted.

3. The number of participants involved.

4. Representation that the age of the participants is 21 years of age or older.

5. The duration of the test.

6. The total amount of liquor involved in the testing and the total amount to be given each participant.

7. Statement that all federal and Illinois taxes have been or will be paid.

8. The name and address of the wholesaler from whom the product is purchased.

Tasting and Product Sampling requirements are simply set forth in the statute and rules. An important point to remember is that both the rules tasting and the statutory product sampling must be performed upon licensed retail liquor premises. No tasting or product sampling can legally be conducted on a non-licensed premises, i.e., “in-home tastings,” or product samplings at a flower shop.

A manufacturer, distributor and importing distributor may furnish, free of charge to the retail liquor licensee, cups and napkins in conjunction with tastings, test marketings and product samplings.

If the retailer has previously purchased the product to be tasted or tested, the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor may pay for such product at the retailer’s original cost. If the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor supplies the product, the product remaining after the tasting or testing must be returned to the manufacturer, distributor or importing distributor (variations from these provisions will be considered consignment sales pursuant to Federal Regulations and the “Of Value” provisions of 235 ILCS 5/6-5).

TPP-15 Geographic Territories

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the guidelines which shall control the relationship between Manufacturers and Distributors in the following areas:

A. Geographic Territories

B. Registration of Brands

C. Sales Outside of Geographic Territory

D. Sub-distributor Exception

E. Withdrawal of Registered Distributor

F. Registration of Products and Distributors

G. “Secondary” alcohol marketplace

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that manufacturers shall designate distributors for the sale and distribution of their brands within specified geographic territories, and that retail licensees must purchase alcoholic beverages from distributors authorized to sell in such designated geographic territories. Distributors shall regularly service all retail licensees within their geographic territories without prejudice in accordance with State statute (235 ILCS 5/6-17.1); and shall make available to all retail licensees any products for which they have distribution rights.

III. Background, Statutes, Regulations

235 ILCS 5/6-9 of the Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/1, et seq.) and 815 ILCS 720/5(8) of the Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act (815 ILCS 720/1, et seq.) provide the guidelines for the sale of alcoholic liquors within geographic territories.

Section 100.60 of the Rules and Regulations of the ILCC also apply.

815 ILCS 720/3 and 4 provide the guidelines for cancelling an agreement between the brewer and the wholesaler-distributor.

For the purposes of this policy, a “manufacturer” shall include any manufacturer, importing distributor, distributor, non-resident dealer or foreign importer who owns or controls a trade mark, brand or name of alcoholic liquor.

IV. Procedures

A. Restricted Geographic Territories

Each manufacturer shall designate a distributor(s) for the sale of its product(s) to retailers within a designated geographic territory (235 ILCS 5/5-1(a-1) and 5/6-9).

1. The manufacturer of an alcoholic product other than beer may designate more than one distributor within a geographic territory (235 ILCS 5/6-9).

2. A beer manufacturer may designate only one distributor within a geographic territory (815 ILCS 720/5(8)).

B. Registration of Brands

1. Every manufacturer must register the name of each distributor to whom such manufacturer has granted the right to sell its product with the ILCC (235 ILCS 5/6-9).

2. The registration statement must specify:

a. the particular brands of alcoholic liquor each distributor has been granted;

b. the geographical area for which such right is granted; and

c. the period of time for which such right is granted.

3. Such registration shall be made only by the person who owns or controls the trademark, brand or name of any alcoholic liquor (Section 100.60(b)).

4. Such registration shall be fulfilled by submitting the form to the Commission (235 ILCS 5/5-1(a-1).

C. No Sales Outside of Geographic Territory

1. A distributor may not sell alcoholic liquor outside its designated geographic territory. Nor may a distributor sell alcoholic liquor to a retail licensee whose premises are located outside of such geographic territory (235 ILCS 5/6-9).

2. A retailer may not purchase alcoholic liquor from a distributor who does not bear distributing rights in the geographic territory in which the retailer’s place of business is situated (Section 100.60(d)).

D. Sub-distributor Exception

In 1979, the narrow “Sub-distributor” exception to 235 ILCS 5/6-9 has been carved out for certain distributors who qualify as “sub-distributors.” These sub-distributors, to whom the manufacturer has not granted the right to sell a brand of alcoholic liquor, may nevertheless purchase such brand from a duly appointed distributor and sell at wholesale. However, the following restrictions apply:

1. The sub-distributor must be a licensed Illinois distributor who has been engaged in the purchase of a brand for resale for a period of two years prior to November 8, 1979;

2. The sub-distributor must properly notify the Commission in writing of the brands it wishes to purchase and resell;

3. The sub-distributor’s business address must be within the geographical area of his distributor; and

4. The sub-distributor may only make sales within the geographical area of its distributor.

This subsection was amended in 1998 to add language which mandated that the sub-distributor sales could only be made to retail licensees whose licensed premises were located within the geographical area for which the licensed Illinois distributor from whom the sub-distributor purchased were made. And the 1998 amendment also added to the paragraph following the above, that any licensed Illinois distributor who had not been granted the right to sell any alcoholic liquor at wholesale and was purchasing alcoholic liquor from a person who had been granted the right to sell at wholesale may sell and deliver only to retail licensees whose licensed premises were within the same geographical area as the person who had been granted the right to sell at wholesale.

E. Withdrawal of Registered Distributor

1. Beer

. When a brewer terminates an agreement granting a wholesaler the right to sell a particular brand, that brewer must file a “Withdrawal of Registration” form with the ILCC. A copy of this “Withdrawal of Registration” shall be sent registered or certified mail to all those listed thereon to serve as notice of the contents (Reg. 100.60).

b. A brewer may terminate an agreement without furnishing any prior notification for the following reasons:

i. Wholesaler’s failure to pay any account when due, upon demand by the brewer for such payment, in accordance with agreed payment terms.

ii. Wholesaler’s assignment for the benefit of creditors, or similar disposition, of substantially all of the assets of such party’s business.

ii. Insolvency of wholesaler, or the institution of voluntary or involuntary proceedings in bankruptcy involving the wholesaler.

iv. Dissolution or liquidation of the wholesaler.

v. Any attempted transfer of business assets, voting stock

c. For all other reasons, the brewer or wholesaler must provide written notice not less than ninety (90) days prior to the date upon which a termination of any such agreement is sought.

The notice shall contain the following:

i. a statement of intention to cancel, refusal to renew, or termination for other specified reasons;

ii. a complete statement of reasons, including all data and documentation necessary to apprise the wholesaler of the reasons for the action; and

iii. the date on which the action shall take effect (815 ILCS 720/3(2)).

d. The brewer and wholesaler must make reasonable good faith efforts to resolve any disagreements. If, within 90 days after receiving notification of an intent to terminate, the affected party rectifies or otherwise eliminates the specified cause of the disagreement, the party serving notice to cancel, refusal to renew, or otherwise terminate, may not do so (815 ILCS 720/4).

2. Alcoholic Liquors Other Than Beer

a. There is no 90 day notification provision governing the termination of an agreement between a manufacturer and a distributor for the sale and distribution of alcoholic liquors other than beer.

b. However, upon termination of an agreement, the manufacturer must file a “Withdrawal of Registration” form.

c. The party terminating the agreement shall send via certified or registered mail a copy of the “Withdrawal of Registration” to all those listed thereon to serve as notice of the contents.

d. Since such terminations involve private, contractual disputes, the Commission does not become involved in same, other than in response to a petition filed by the party owning the brand name, trademark, etc. to direct the terminated distributor to cease distribution of the subject products.

F. Registration of Products and Distributors

It has come to the attention of the Commission that certain licensees responsible for the registration of distributors/importing distributors/foreign importers (wholesalers) and products in the State of Illinois have failed to comply with one or more of the Illinois statutory and regulatory requirements.

Wholesaler/product registrations may be filed with the Commission at any time, but must be received by the Commission before the particular wholesaler(s) can initiate product sales. To assist in such filing the Commission has added both the Registration Statement and the Withdrawal of Registration (in PDF format) to its website ( Only original documents with necessary information and authorized signatures will be filed. Duplicate copies will be file stamped and returned, if requested. The failure of any responsible licensees to act in conformity with the statute and rule may subject such licensees to disciplinary action.

See also, P.A. 92-0105 which provides that Foreign Importers are subject to all the filing requirements of Sec. 5/6-9, and that wholesalers may file “substitute” registration statements in the event they are not provided copies by the party filing same with the Commission.

Sec. 5/5-1

(k) A foreign importer's license shall permit such licensee to purchase alcoholic liquor from Illinois licensed non‑resident dealers only, and to import alcoholic liquor other than in bulk from any point outside the United States and to sell such alcoholic liquor to Illinois licensed importing distributors and to no one else in Illinois; provided that the foreign importer registers with the State Commission every brand of alcoholic liquor that it proposes to sell to Illinois licensees during the license period and provided further that the foreign importer complies with all of the provisions of Section 6‑9 of this Act with respect to registration of such Illinois licensees as may be granted the right to sell such brands at wholesale.

Sec. 6-9

Each manufacturer, non‑resident dealer, distributor or importing distributor, or foreign importer who is required to register under this Section must furnish a copy of the registration statement at the time of appointment to the person who has been granted the right to sell alcoholic liquor at wholesale. However, if a person who has been appointed the right to sell alcoholic liquor at wholesale does not receive a copy of the registration statement as required under this Section, such person may file a registration statement with the State Commission, provided that the person furnishes a copy of that registration statement to the manufacturer, non‑resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor, or foreign importer within 30 days of filing the registration statement.

The registration statement shall state:

(1) the name of the person appointed;

(2) the name of the manufacturer, non‑resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor, or foreign importer from whom the person received the right to sell alcoholic liquor;

(3) the particular trade mark, brand, or name of alcoholic liquor as to which the right to sell at wholesale is granted; and

(4) the geographical areas for which the right to sell at wholesale is granted.

In every instance in which an Illinois distributor seeks to file a registration statement under P.A.-0105, the party seeking such filing shall provide the Commission written documentation evidencing that party’s right to make such a filing, including but not limited to copies of contracts between the distributor and the party appointing, a letter of authority, or other authoritative documentation. Any party seeking to file such registration statement without a legal basis for same shall be subject to discipline for such violation.

G. “Secondary” Alcohol Marketplace

The “secondary” alcohol marketplace concerns the acquisition of usually rare, or “vintage,” alcoholic beverages from sources such as estates, auctions, wholesaler stock, foreign producers and the like, which beverages have traveled through the three-tier system prior to the time of such acquisition, all applicable taxes having been properly collected and remitted. These products, usually wines, but both malt beverages and distilled spirits may also be subject to such acquisition, have been acquired by a licensee, usually a non-resident dealer, who seeks to reintroduce the product into the stream of commerce.

Where such rare or vintage alcoholic beverages are acquired by a licensed non-resident dealer, and the original producer of such products has not filed a written objection with the Commission, the non-resident dealer may register the product and appoint licensed Illinois wholesalers to distribute the product, as may be provided by law.

The non-resident dealer, prior to any sale of such product to any Illinois wholesaler shall file with the Commission a Registration Statement, substantially following the form which follows this policy. Any change in the appointment of Illinois wholesaler to handle these products will be accomplished as provided in Sec. 5/6-9, with a “Withdrawal of Registration” and the filing of a new registration form.

The filing of a Registration Statement shall initiate the process, which shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Commission to determine the propriety of the request for registration.

TPP-16 Deposits On Bottles And Barrels

I. Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines as to how much and when beer manufacturers (“brewers”) and distributors must charge for barrel deposits.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) that a brewer or distributor must treat all retail accounts the same when charging for barrel deposits.

III. Background

235 ILCS 5/6-5 provides the requirements for the deposits on bottles and barrels for beer.

IV. Procedure

A. Bottles And Cases

1. Retailer

a. Unless the purchase price expressly includes a charge for the bottles and cases, the retailer must pay the distributor a cash deposit.

b. The cash deposit must be paid on or before the delivery of such beer.

c. The retailer must pay a deposit amount not less than that charged a distributor by the brewer. However, in no instance shall this deposit be less than the following:

i. 50 cents for each case of beer in pint or smaller bottles, and

ii. 60 cents for each case of beer in quart or half-gallon bottles.

d. The deposit shall be credited or refunded to the retailer upon return of the bottles or cases.

2. Distributor

a. Unless the purchase price expressly includes a charge for the bottles and cases, the distributor must pay the brewer a cash deposit.

b. A distributor has fifteen (15) days (Sundays and holidays excepted) after delivery to pay the cash deposit for the bottles and cases of beer.

c. The distributor must pay a deposit amount not less than the following:

i. 50 cents for each case of beer in pint or smaller bottles, and

ii. 60 cents for each case of beer in quart or half-gallon bottles.

d. The deposit shall be credited or refunded to the distributor upon return of the bottles and cases.

B. Barrels

There is no requirement of a deposit charge for barrels. However, if one distributor or retailer is charged, then all must be charged.

TPP-17 Non-Alcoholic Products

I. Purpose

To establish the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission regarding the regulation of non-alcoholic products; i.e., “non-alcoholic” beer, confectionary products, or other products using alcohol as a flavoring agent.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission not to regulate any liquid or solid containing one-half of one percent or less of alcohol by volume.

III. Definitions

The Illinois Liquor Control Act, Section 5/1-3.05, defines “alcoholic liquor” to include: “alcohol, spirits, wine and beer, and every liquid or solid, patented or not, containing alcohol, spirits, wine or beer, and capable of being consumed as a beverage by a human being. The provisions of this Act shall not apply to alcohol used in the manufacture of denatured alcohol produced in accordance with Acts of Congress and regulations promulgated thereunder, nor to any liquid or solid containing one-half of one per cent, or less, of alcohol by volume.”

The Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act, 815 ILCS, at Section 720/1.1(1) defines “beer” as: “a beverage obtained by the alcoholic fermentation of an infusion or concoction of barley, or other grain, malt, and hops in water, and includes, among other things, beer, ale, stout, lager beer, porter and the like.”

IV. Procedure

A. PRODUCTS, OTHER THAN BEER, WITH .5% OR LESS OF ALCOHOL BY VOLUME

1. The provisions of the Liquor Control Act do not apply to this category of products. Consequently, this Commission does not regulate such products.

2. A distributor is free to refuse sale of products which fall under this category.

B. BEER WITH .5% OR LESS OF ALCOHOL BY VOLUME

1. The provisions of the Liquor Control Act do not apply to this category of products. Consequently, this Commission does not regulate such products.

2. The provisions of the Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act do apply to any products which fall under the definition of “beer.”

3. Since non-alcoholic beer is subject to the Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act, Regulation 100.30 vests this Commission with the jurisdiction to revoke or suspend any of its licensees for the violation of any of the provisions of the Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act.

C. TAXATION OF PRODUCTS WITH .5% OR LESS OF ALCOHOL BY VOLUME

Since this Commission does not regulate any liquid or solid containing one-half of one percent or less of alcohol by volume, this Commission does not have the authority to rule on whether the State’s Retailer’s Occupation Tax applies to products with one-half of one percent or less of alcohol by volume.

D. Other

1. Sorbet which contain a small quantity of alcohol. While this products may contain alcohol in excess of the one-half of one percent potentially allowing it to be regulated by the Commission, the product appears to fall within the general exclusion of not being a “beverage.” Since the product falls outside the regulation of the Illinois Liquor Control Act, the Commission does not take a position on its authority to regulate the product.

2. Confectionary products. The above rationale applies to confectionary products as well. The producer of these products should be aware that the Illinois Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act (410 ILCS 620/10(c) states that: “If it is confectionery and it bears or contains any alcohol; however, this subsection shall not apply to any confectionery by reason of its containing less than .5% by volume of alcohol.”

TPP-18 Pre-Mixing Of Alcoholic Products

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures governing the serving and storage of pre-mixed alcoholic beverages, and the maintenance and cleaning of mechanical dispensing systems.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission to allow retailers to use pre-mixed alcoholic beverages and dispensing systems.

III. Background

Pursuant to 235 ILCS 5/6-22, “no person except a manufacturer or distributor, or importing distributor, shall fill or refill, in whole or in part, any original package of alcoholic liquor with the same or any other kind or quality of alcoholic liquor, and it shall be unlawful for any person to have in his possession for sale at retail any bottles, casks or other containers containing alcoholic liquor, except in original packages.”

Reg. Sec. 100.290 states in relevant part that “no retail licensee shall offer for sale or possess on said licensed premises:

a) Any original package of alcoholic liquor which contains any kind or quality of alcoholic liquor other than that which has been sealed and labeled by the manufacturer or nonresident dealer of alcoholic liquor, to contain and to convey said alcoholic liquor.

b) Any original package of alcoholic liquor to which there has been added any water or other substance . . .” (Source: Amended at 20 Ill. Reg. 834, effective January 2, 1996).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Commission, via regulation, has made provision for certain alcoholic beverages to be served in pre-mixed form. Sec. 100.160(e) requires that: “Pre-mixed alcoholic beverages and their containers must comply with all sanitation requirements as found in this Section, along with all prohibitions against refilling as found in Section 100.290(c). All pre-mix dispensing containers or systems must be drained, contents disposed of, and thoroughly cleaned at least once every week. For mechanical systems a record shall be kept on the premises as to the dates the cleaning was done, signed by the person who actually performed the cleaning.”

IV. Procedures

1. Pre-mixed beverages may be brand specific.

2. Mechanical pre-mixing systems may be brand specific. Any advertisement or promotional materials placed on top of or around such systems shall not be deceptive in describing the brand of alcoholic liquor served.

3. Pre-mixed beverages shall be disposed of weekly.

4. Containers used for pre-mixing must comply with all sanitation requirements of Section 100.160, and prohibitions against refilling of Section 100.290.

5. Mechanical pre-mixing dispensing systems must be drained and thoroughly cleaned at least once every week.

6. Records of the cleaning must be kept on the premises, reflecting the date(s) on which such cleaning was done, and bearing the signature of the individual performing the cleaning.

TPP-19 Auction Of Liquor

I. Purpose

This policy defines the procedures for the sale of alcoholic beverages by auction.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) to regulate all alcoholic beverages sold by auction.

III. Background

235 ILCS 5/1-3.32 and 235 ILCS 5/5-1(p) provide guidelines for the rights and duties of an auction liquor license.

IV. Procedures

A. A person wishing to apply for an auction liquor license must first become licensed pursuant to the Illinois Auction License Act (225 ILCS 407/5-1, et seq.).

B. A person wishing to sell alcoholic beverages by auction must obtain an auction liquor license. An auction liquor license shall only be issued to a person. A non-licensed person may not sell alcoholic beverages.

C. A person wishing to sell by auction must obtain written approval from the ILCC. An auction liquor license must be obtained at least fourteen (14) days in advance of the auction date.

D. An auction liquor license allows the licensee to do the following:

1. sell and offer for sale wine and spirits for use or consumption,

2. sell and offer for sale wine and spirits for resale by an Illinois liquor licensee,

3. hold the auction on a specified date,

4. hold the auction anywhere in the State of Illinois.

E. Approved sales

1. private sale

2. out-of-state sale

3. sale to ultimate consumer

4. sale to distributor or retailer for resale

F. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to allow a retailer outside the context of a validly licensed

G. Auction to purchase from anyone other than a distributor in violation of 235 ILCS 5/5-1. Other than as stated in this policy a retailer is required to make regular purchases in the ordinary course of business from a licensed distributor, or be in violation of 235 ILCS 5/5-1.

H. Sales on consignment are prohibited.

TPP-20 Brew Pubs

I. Purpose

This policy defines the procedures which must be followed in order for a retailer to manufacture and sell its own beer.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission to allow retailers to brew their own beer on their retail premises for sale to the public.

III. Background

The alcoholic industry operates on a three tier system: manufacturers, distributors and retailers. In order to prevent the prohibited practice of a “tied house,” members of one tier are prohibited from owning any interest in another tier. Thus, the holder of a manufacturer’s license is not generally allowed to hold a retailer’s license.

However, in response to the growing development of micro-breweries, the Illinois Legislature, in 1993, amended the Statute to provide for a Brew Pub license. The Brew Pub license essentially carves out a narrow exception to the general rule that a manufacturer cannot also be a retailer.

IV. Definitions

A.235 ILCS 5/1-3.08. Manufacturer

“Manufacturer” means every brewer, fermenter, distiller, rectifier, wine maker, blender, processor, bottler or person who fills or refills an original package, whether for himself or for another, and others engaged in brewing, fermenting, distilling, rectifying or bottling alcoholic liquors.

B.235 ILCS 5/1-3.17. Retailer

“Retailer” means a person who sells, or offers for sale, alcoholic liquor for use or consumption and not for resale in any form.

C.235 ILCS 5/5-1(n) Brew Pub

A brew pub license shall allow the licensee to manufacturer beer only on the premises specified on the license, to make sales of the beer manufactured on the premises to importing distributors, distributors and to non-licensees for use and consumption, to store the beer upon the premises, and to sell and offer for sale at retail.

D.235 ILCS 5/1-3.13. Manufacture

“Manufacture” means to distill, rectify, ferment, brew, make, mix, concoct, process, blend, bottle or fill an original package with an alcoholic liquor, whether for oneself or for another, and includes blending but does not include the mixing or other preparation of drinks for serving by those persons authorized and permitted in this Act to serve drinks for consumption on the premises where sold. All containers or packages of blended alcoholic liquors shall have affixed thereto a label setting forth and stating clearly the names of all ingredients which the blended alcoholic liquors offered for sale shall contain.

V. Procedures

A. Brewing on Premises for Sale at Retail

1.Pursuant to 235 ILCS 5/5-1(n), a brew pub license requires and permits the following:

a. the licensee must manufacture the beer on the licensed premises;

b. the licensee must store and sell the beer from the licensed premises;

c. the licensee may sell the beer to distributors and importing distributors for resale;

d. the licensee may sell and offer for sale the beer at retail for consumption only on the licensed premises, and

e. the licensee may sell and offer for sale other alcoholic beverages at retail.

B. The ILCC views a Brew Pub as a retailer which manufactures its own beer. All retailer statutes and regulations apply. A Brew Pub licensee may not obtain a distributor’s license.

C. The Commission has received recent inquiries about activities which may be taking place upon the premises of “brew pubs.” Prior to the enactment of the “Brew Pub” statute (235 ILCS 5/1-3.33; 5/5-1(n)) entities seeking to conduct business under the umbrella of a “brew pub” were required to secure both a retailer and a brewer license. Local approval/licensing was also required of the “retailer” aspects of such a business.

When the General Assembly enacted the amendments to the Illinois Liquor Control Act, referenced above, the “brew pub” was as defined as follows:

A' 1-3.33. “Brew Pub’ means a person who manufactures beer only at a designated premises to make sales to importing distributors, distributors, and to non-licensees for use and consumption only, who stores beer at the designated premises, and who is allowed to sell at retail. (Source: P.A. 88-91)” The licensing description of a “brew pub” is as follows: “A brew pub license shall allow the licensee to manufacture beer only on the premises specified in the license, to make sales of the beer manufactured on the premises to importing distributors, distributors, and to non-licensees for use and consumption, to store the beer upon the premises, and to sell and offer for sale at retail.”

Some confusion may have arisen from a reading of the portion of the statute which dealt with the right of a manufacturer to secure one retailer license, which predated the foregoing “brew pub” legislation. Section 5/6-4(e) provided that the manufacturer which had received a retailer’s license was permitted to sell “beer only.”

The omission of a similar limitation on the brew pub license was intended to not restrict the brew pub licensee to such “sale of beer only” upon the licensed premises. It was the intent of the legislation, and it is the position of this Commission, that a brew pub licensee may sell wine and distilled spirits, in addition to, beer only for consumption upon its licensed premises. This therefore allows brew pub licensees to purchase for resale whatever alcoholic liquors all other retail liquor licensees can, subject only to the type of license the entity has secured from the local liquor control commissioner. Further, the question has been posed whether a brew pub can bottle its product for sale to retail consumers for “off-premises” consumption. Notwithstanding the nature of the local license issued the business, i.e., combination, on- and off-premises, the Illinois Liquor Control Act does allow sales for “off-premises” consumption. A brew pub which wants its product to be able to be sold for such “off-premises” consumption, would have to act as any other brewer and register a distributor, which will handle the product for retail purchase.

TPP-21 Reserved

TPP-22 HAPPY HOUR LAW

I. Purpose

This Policy statement establishes this Commission’s policy as to various licensee promotions, and defines the general procedure used by this Commission to enforce the Happy Hour Law (235 ILCS 5/6-28).

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission to define the types of promotions and activities allowed under the Happy Hour Law, to monitor and verify compliance with those defined promotions and activities, and to enforce this policy as provided by law.

III. Definitions

A. MEAL PACKAGE

Any food, excluding snacks and other so-called “finger food,” that is served on the licensed premises, which includes the service of alcoholic beverages as part of such package.

B. DAY

The period of time beginning from the opening of business to the close of business, not exceeding twenty-four hours.

C. DRINKS

The term shall also include more than one container of an alcoholic beverage or a pitcher of an alcoholic beverage.

IV. Procedure

The Happy Hour Law, effective 8/31/89, was passed in order to eliminate the over consumption of alcoholic liquor and was intended to eliminate promotions that would encourage such over consumption.

The Happy Hour Law states in relevant part:

(b) No retail licensee or employee or agent of such licensee shall:

(1) serve 2 or more drinks of alcoholic liquor at one time to one person for consumption by that one person, except selling or delivering wine by the bottle or carafe;

(2) sell, offer to sell or serve to any person an unlimited number of drinks of alcoholic liquor during any set period of time for a fixed price, except at private functions not open to the general public;

(3) sell, offer to sell or serve any drink of alcoholic liquor to any person on any date at a reduced price other than that charged other purchasers of drinks on that day where such reduced price is a promotion to encourage consumption of alcoholic liquor...;

(4) increase the volume of alcoholic liquor contained in a drink, or the size of a drink of alcoholic liquor, without increasing proportionately the price regularly charged for the drink on that day;

(5) encourage or permit, on the licensed premises, any game or contest which involves drinking alcoholic liquor or awarding of drinks of alcoholic liquor as prizes for such game or contest on the licensed premises; or

(6) advertise or promote in any way, whether on or off the licensed premises, any practices prohibited under paragraphs (1) through (5).”

(1) offering free food or entertainment at any time;

(2) including drinks of alcoholic liquor as part of a meal package;

(3) including drinks of alcoholic liquor as part of a hotel package;

(4) negotiating drinks of alcoholic liquor as part of a contract between hotel or multi-use establishments and another group for the holding of any function, meeting, convention or trade show;

(5) providing room service to persons renting rooms at a hotel;

(6) selling pitchers (or the equivalent, including but not limited to buckets), carafes, or bottles of alcoholic liquor which are customarily sold in such manner and delivered to 2 or more persons at one time; or

(7) increasing prices of drinks of alcoholic liquor in lieu of, in whole or in part, a cover charge to offset the

cost of special entertainment not regularly scheduled.”

In addition, Regulation 100.280 of this Commission states as follows:

a) No individual, partnership or corporation shall give away any alcoholic liquor for commercial purposes or in connection with the sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products.

b) No licensee shall give or offer to give away alcoholic liquor in connection with the sale of non-alcoholic products or to promote the sale of non-alcoholic products.

c) No individual, partnership, corporation or licensee shall advertise or promote in any way, whether on or off licensed premises, any of the practices prohibited under subsections (a) or (b) above.”

A. The Happy Hour Law prohibits:

1. Serving two or more drinks to one person for consumption by that person. This requires that individuals be served only one drink at a time. Also prohibited are promotions such as A2 for 1” drinks, or any type of promotion which discounts drinks at a 2 for 1 or greater (3-1) price. A “shot and a beer” (boilermaker) promotion is allowable as such is considered one drink under this provision.

2. Serving an unlimited amount of drinks during a set period of time for a fixed price. This prohibits the practice of charging a flat fee for “all you can drink” all day or during a set period of time. However, an exception is made for private functions not open to the general public, but this requires that the number of participants at the event must be limited by the licensee either through the issuance of tickets, invitations or set number of participants at the activity. Specifically excepted are weddings, private parties, fund-raising functions, etc., at which the emphasis is on the participants, event itself or beneficent purpose, and not on the consumption of alcohol.

3. Reducing prices of drinks during a specified period during the day or to a specified group of individuals. This is the provision that prohibits the euphemistic “Happy Hour” and “Ladies Night” during which all patrons or only a specific group is given a promotion encouraging consumption. Prices for any specific product may not change during the business day. All customers must be charged the same price for the same alcoholic liquor. A multi-use establishment may charge different prices in different rooms, provided such prices remain the same all day, and separate price schedules are kept for each room. Regulation 100.280 forbids retailers from giving away alcoholic liquor, however, the practice of a bartender buying a drink for a customer is allowable if such practice is not advertised, if such drink is purchased as a “reward” for patronage or loyalty, and is not done to encourage consumption.

4. Increasing the volume of alcoholic liquor contained in a drink but must be capable of being used for any type of purchase at the licensed premises (e.g. food, soft drinks, promotional items). without proportionately increasing the price regularly charged for that drink on that given day. This requires that the price of a drink be increased by the proportionate increase of the alcohol in the drink. The price of a “double” must therefore be twice the price of a regular, one-shot drink.

5. A licensee from encouraging or permitting, on its premises, games or contests which involve drinking alcoholic liquor or awarding drinks as prizes. Although a licensee may sponsor games and contests at its premises, alcoholic product may not be a prize for winning such contests, and the drinking of alcohol may not be part of the contest (e.g. chugging contest). A licensee may offer coupons for winning such contest; however, the coupons may not be used solely for alcohol (e.g. drink coupons)

6. Advertising, in any way, any practice prohibited by the Happy Hour Law. The act of advertising a promotion which violates the Happy Hour Law is, in itself, a violation. This Commission takes the position that using the word “free” (or any form thereof) in any advertising promotion regarding alcoholic liquor (e.g. “buy a case, get a six-pack free”) is a violation of both 5/6-28 and Regulation 100.280. Such promotions encourage the over consumption of alcoholic liquor.

7. Serving traditionally “individual” drinks in carafes, pitchers, etc., is considered by the Commission to be a violation of “Happy Hour.”

B. The Happy Hour Law permits:

1.Offering free food or entertainment. The Happy Hour Law was intended to control only the sale of alcoholic liquor, thus promotions which offer free products, including entertainment, to attract customers, are not prohibited. Nothing in this Practice or in the Act prohibits a licensee from discriminating between classes of customers in areas other than the sale of alcohol. Therefore, it is the position of this Commission that free or reduced prices for food, cover charges and other non-alcohol related items are not controlled by the Happy Hour Law.

2.Including drinks with a meal or hotel package. The emphasis of such promotion must be the meal or hotel package itself, and not unlimited consumption of alcohol. A meal package is defined above, and must not be of the general hors d’oeuvres variety. Meal package promotions must be confined to a restricted area of the licensed premises and customers not partaking of the meal package may not be allowed to mingle with the patrons participating in the meal package.

3. Selling pitchers, carafes or bottles of alcoholic liquor customarily sold in that manner and delivered to two (2) or more persons. Promotions such as “buckets” are allowable, as long as such promotions comply with all the other stated provisions of the Happy Hour Law.

4. Increasing drink prices in lieu of a cover charge if special entertainment, which is not regularly scheduled, is at the licensed premises. This provision allows a licensee to increase drink prices, in lieu of a cover charge, to defray the cost of non-regularly scheduled entertainment. However, this practice is not allowed for entertainment which is of the “house band” variety. If an establishment has various entertainment acts scheduled on a regular basis, this will also be considered to be of the “house band” variety. Nothing in this practice, or in the Act, prohibits the licensed establishment from discriminating between classes of customers in other area, not involving the sale of alcohol. Therefore it is the position of this Commission that free or reduced prices for cover charges is not controlled by the Happy Hour Law.

TPP-23 Transportation And Delivery Of Alcohol

I. Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines for the transportation and delivery of alcohol within the State of Illinois.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) to allow the transportation and delivery of alcohol under specified circumstances.

III. Background

235 ILCS 5/2-1 provides that no person shall transport or deliver any alcoholic liquor for beverage purposes, except as specifically provided by the Liquor Control Act (“Act”). However, the Act does not prevent the transportation of alcoholic liquor for the personal use of the possessor, his family or guests.

235 ILCS 5/6-7 provides that any package containing alcoholic liquor shall have affixed to it all cancelled revenue stamps which may be provided by Federal law and shall bear a clear and legible label containing certain specified information. Additionally, the package shall be securely sealed so that the contents cannot be removed without breaking the manufacturer’s seal.

235 ILCS 5/6-8 provides the procedure for the transportation and delivery of alcohol into Illinois.

235 ILCS 5/6-29, the Interstate Reciprocal Wine Shipments provision, limits the shipping of wine for personal use to not more than two (2) cases per year per adult resident of Illinois. Each case may contain not more than nine (9) liters.

235 ILCS 5/6-29.1, Direct shipments of alcoholic liquor.

Pursuant to the Twenty-First Amendment to the United States Constitution allowing the states to regulate the distribution and sale of alcoholic liquor and pursuant to the federal Webb-Kenyon Act declaring that alcoholic liquor shipped in interstate commerce must comply with state laws, the General Assembly hereby finds and declares that selling alcoholic liquor from a point outside this State through various direct marketing means, such as catalogs, newspapers, mailers, and the Internet, directly to residents of this State poses a serious threat to the State's efforts to prevent youths from accessing alcoholic liquor; to State revenue collections; and to the economy of this State.

Any person manufacturing, distributing, or selling alcoholic liquor who knowingly ships or transports or causes the shipping or transportation of any alcoholic liquor from a point outside this State to a person in this State who does not hold a manufacturer's, distributor's, importing distributor's, or non-resident dealer's license issued by the Liquor Control Commission, other than a shipment of sacramental wine to a bona fide religious organization, a shipment authorized by Section 6-29, or any other shipment authorized by this Act, is in violation of this Act.

The Commission, upon determining, after investigation, that a person has violated this Section, shall give notice to the person by certified mail to cease and desist all shipments of alcoholic liquor into this State and to withdraw from this State within 5 working days after receipt of the notice all shipments of alcoholic liquor then in transit.

Whenever the Commission has reason to believe that a person has failed to comply with the Commission notice under this Section, it shall notify the Department of Revenue and file a complaint with the State's Attorney of the county where the alcoholic liquor was delivered or with appropriate law enforcement officials.

Failure to comply with the notice issued by the Commission under this Section constitutes a business offense for which the person shall be fined not more than $1,000 for a first offense, not more than $5,000 for a second offense, and not more than $10,000 for a third or subsequent offense. Each shipment of alcoholic liquor delivered in violation of the cease and desist notice shall constitute a separate offense.

235 ILCS 5/8-12 and Section 420.100 of the Revenue Regulations provide that every person or carrier transporting alcoholic liquors into the State of Illinois shall keep a record of any deliveries and file a monthly report with the Department of Revenue.

235 ILCS 5/8-1 and Section 420.30 of the Revenue Regulations provide for the gallonage tax liability for the sale and transportation of alcohol.

IV. Procedures

A. All alcoholic liquor imported into Illinois must be off-loaded from the common carrier, vehicle or mode of transportation by which the alcoholic liquor was delivered into Illinois.

B. All alcoholic liquor imported into Illinois must be delivered to an importing distributor.

C. A distributor or importing distributor, upon application to the ILCC, may secure permission to deliver beer directly to a retail licensee holding or otherwise participating in a special event.

D. Any manufacturer, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer may only sell or deliver packages containing alcoholic liquor which have affixed to them the following:

1. all cancelled revenue stamps which may be provided by Federal law,

2. a clear and legible label containing

a. the name and address of the manufacturer,

b. the kind of alcoholic liquor contained therein, and

c. in the case of alcoholic liquor (other than beer, imported Scotch whiskey and brandy 4 years old or more) the date when manufactured and the minimum alcoholic content thereof.

E. No package shall be delivered by any manufacturer, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer unless the same shall be securely sealed so that the contents thereof cannot be removed without breaking the seal so placed thereon by the manufacturer.

F. Any person or party who brings, carries or transports alcoholic liquors into the State of Illinois for delivery in Illinois must prepare and file with the Department of Revenue for each month, not later than the fifteenth day of the month following that for which it is made, a report stating the following information:

1. the name of the person or party making the report,

2. the address in Illinois at which the records supporting such report are kept and open to inspection,

3. the period of time covered by the report,

4. the name and business address of each consignor,

5. the name and business address of each consignee,

6. the kind and quantity of alcoholic liquors delivered to each consignee, and

7. the date(s) of delivery.

G. The books and records supporting such report shall be kept and preserved for a period of three (3) years, unless their destruction sooner is authorized in writing by the Director of the Department of Revenue.

H. All applicable taxes must be paid to the Department of Revenue (see 235 ILCS 5/8-1 and Section 420.30 of the Revenue Regulations).

I. The Liquor Control Act does not prevent the possession and transportation of alcoholic liquor for the personal use of the possessor, his family and guests.

A. Each adult may receive up to two (2) cases of wine per year. Each case may contain not more than nine (9) liters.

V. Exceptions

There are situations in which the shipping into the State of Illinois of unregistered alcoholic beverages is permissible notwithstanding the above prohibitions and conditions.

A. Test Marketing of product in accordance with TPP-14.

B. Shipment of limited quantities to writers or reviewers in the alcoholic beverage industry, to whom shipments are made for the purpose of consumption, evaluation and critical comment. The quantities allowable are usually one bottle per product type, but in no event should the quantity be sufficient to be considered “re-sellable.”

C. Other situations will be evaluated on a case-by-case submission.

TPP-24 Reserved

TPP-25 Stocking, Rotating And Re-Setting Of Products

I. Purpose

This Policy statement defines procedures regarding manufacturers and distributors stocking, rotating and re-setting their products at retail establishments.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that manufacturers and distributors may stock and rotate their product at retail establishments as long as such activities are done in conjunction with and incidental to delivery of such product in the normal course of business or at the time of a sales call to the retailer. However, such services must be done voluntarily by the manufacturer, distributor and importing distributor, and may not be required to be performed by the retailer. This policy allows distributors to take part in retailer prompted resets up to four times per year, as long as all distributors are notified of the reset. This policy prohibits manufacturers and distributors from acting as the employee of the retailer, from pricing the retailer’s products and, generally, from handling any other supplier’s products.

III. Background

Pursuant to 235 ILCS 5/6-5, it is illegal “for any person having a retailer’s license or any officer, associate, member, representative or agent of such licensee to accept or receive ... anything...of value...directly or indirectly from any manufacturer, importing distributor or distributor of alcoholic liquor.” Similarly, 235 ILCS 5/6-5 makes it “unlawful for any manufacturer or distributor or importing distributor to give or lend...anything...of value...directly or indirectly to any retail licensee or to the manager, representative, agent, officer or director of such licensee”. Thus, distributors and manufacturers may not give or lend anything of value to retailers, and retailers may not accept or receive anything of value from distributors or manufacturers.

Pursuant to Policy TPP-1, “Of-Value Standards”, this Commission will determinate on a case-by-case basis whether services may be provided by manufacturer and distributors to retailers. Unless such services are specifically allowed under statute, regulation or trade practice policy, services provided by manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors to retailers will be presumed to be in violation of the “of value” provisions of 235 ILCS 5/6-5.

IV. Procedures

This policy defines the limits on what manufacturers and distributors may legally do for retailers and not risk Commission intervention.

A. General

Under no circumstances may manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors affix prices to product on behalf of retailers. They may not clean or dust shelves, coolers, or products which are on display at the retailer’s location. Generally, they may not touch, move, alter, or disturb the product of a competitor.

Employees of manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may not be treated as employees of retailers, nor may they work free of charge to the retailer.

B. Stocking

At their discretion, manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may stock only their own products at a retail establishment. This shall be done during the course of the regular sales call or delivery to the retailer, however, such services must be done voluntarily by the manufacturer, distributor and importing distributor, and may not be required to be performed by the retailer. Nothing in this Trade Practice Policy shall prohibit the exchange of product that is near the manufacturer’s expiration or ‘code’ date. If stocking is performed with any greater frequency, it will be viewed as more than minimal provision of free labor to the retailer. Stocking is defined as any placing of product where it is to be stored or offered for sale on a retailer’s premises (e.g. on shelves, in coolers, against walls, in displays or in storage areas). Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may place product at any of the aforementioned locations on the theory that stocking is a service incidental to a sales call or a delivery in the ordinary course of business.

However, with respect to special promotions and displays constructed in connection therewith, manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may assemble or construct displays for retailers, may place or position the display at the retail premises, and may stock or replenish the display at any time during the course of the special promotion. In this circumstance there is no “normal sales call or delivery” limitation as it is often necessary to perform such service on a daily basis.

C. Rotation

At their discretion, manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may rotate only their own products at a retail establishment, during the normal course of a sales call or a delivery. In the beer industry this practice is required to ensure compliance with freshness dates. However, such services must be done voluntarily by the distributor, and may not be required to be performed by the retailer. This shall be done during the normal course of a sales call or a delivery, and if done with any greater frequency, it will be viewed as more than minimal provision of free labor to the retailer. Rotation shall include the moving of newer, fresher product from a storage area to an area where it is offered for sale. Permissible rotation also includes the moving of older product to the front of a point-of-sale location and replenishing of the location with fresh product. Rotation may be performed at any location in the retail premises. Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may rotate product on the theory that such rotation is a service incidental to the sales call or delivery of product in the ordinary course of business. However, with respect to special promotions and displays constructed in connection therewith, manufacturers and distributors may assemble or construct the display for retailers, may place or position the display at the retail premises, and may stock or replenish the display at any time. In this circumstance there is no “normal sales call or delivery” limitation as it is often necessary to perform such service on a daily basis. Note that the cost of the display must be in compliance with the dollar limitation provisions of 235 ILCS 5/6-6.

D. Resetting

Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors are permitted to participate in resets conducted at retail establishments no more than four (4) times per calendar year per licensed premises. Resets called by retailers more often than four (4) times a year will be considered to be an unfair burden on the provider of the goods to the retailers.

Whether initiated by the manufacturer, distributor, importing distributor or retailer, where a reset is called it shall be the duty of the retailer to notify in writing all affected manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors of the reset no less than two (2) weeks prior to the date scheduled for the reset. The retailer must make all reasonable efforts to schedule the reset for a time most convenient for the majority of manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors involved. During the reset, participants are limited to the movement of their own goods only, unless another supplier which has been properly notified is not attending. In such case, the participants may assist the retailer in moving the goods of the non-attending supplier. The point is that the retailer can reset the product, on his own, whenever he wants, and a distributor can reset its product so long as it does not touch a competitor’s.

Manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may provide diagrams to retailers, which suggest the most beneficial location within the store for the presentation and sale of product to the consumer. If the retailer decides to follow the location suggestion, manufacturers, distributors and importing distributors may reset only their product within the store in accordance with the diagrams, or any modifications thereof, and a formal reset date in not required to be arranged. However, in this circumstance, the party performing the reset may move only its product.

TPP-26 Transfer Of Alcohol

I. Purpose

It is policy to establish guidelines in determining when a licensed Illinois retailer may transfer alcohol from its premises to that of another premises or retailer.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) to allow a transfer of alcohol from one retail premises to another retail premises only in exceptional situations.

III. Background

Section 100.250 of the Rules and Regulations of the ILCC prohibits a retail licensee to transfer alcohol off its licensed premises to another retail licensed premises. However, the ILCC believes that a licensee may transfer alcohol in certain situations. These situations relate to business transactions which occur outside the ordinary course of a licensee’s business.

Section 100.250 Transfer of Alcohol

The holder of a retail license for the privilege of selling alcoholic liquors at retail on the premises specified in the license, for use or consumption, is hereby restricted to such sale from the licensed premises only and is not permitted to sell to, purchase from or transfer such alcoholic liquor to any other retail licensee or licensed premises. This Section does not apply to transactions not in the ordinary course of business, such as a business closure, if prior approval is given by the Commission. (Source: Amended at 23 Ill. Reg. 3787, effective March 15, 1999)

IV. Procedures

A. Permissible transfers include the following:

1. the licensee either sells or closes his or her business and wishes to transfer any remaining liquor inventory; or

2. miscellaneous circumstances in which a transfer is authorized by the ILCC.

B. Before a licensee may enter into a permissible transfer, the licensee must inform the ILCC in writing of the following:

1. the seller’s licensed premises location;

2. the seller’s license number;

3. the buyer’s licensed premises location;

4. the buyer’s license number; and

5. the inventory being purchased, including type of liquor and quantity of items.

C. All transfers must be approved by the Executive Director or appropriate designee.

D. The buyer must keep a copy of the written document sent to the ILCC on his or her licensed premises in order to show where the liquor was purchased.

E. The buyer must keep a copy of the written document sent to the ILCC on his or her licensed premises for a period of ninety (90) days.

V. Other

Approval of “alternate delivery sites” for retail licensees

The question of the power of the Commission to approve alternate delivery sites for retail licensees must be answered by reference to the Liquor Control Act, Rules and Regulations, and then the Commission’s inherent power to manage an orderly system of alcoholic beverage manufacture, delivery and sale. This issue was raised legislatively with H.B.137, introduced 1/12/99, which sought to amend the Liquor Control Act to provide for minimum delivery intervals and purchase amounts, and to establish “alternative delivery” sites.

The bill, as originally presented, contained the following language:

“If a retailer does not wish to accept delivery at its retail establishment, the retailer may designate an alternate site within the distributor’s geographic area to which the distributor must make delivery if that site has been approved in advance by the State Commission.”

Senate Amendment No. 1. deleted the above provision authorizing a retailer to designate an alternative delivery site and substituted the county-based system which ultimately became law.

The law as passed and signed by the Governor failed to contain any reference to the “alternate delivery site.”

Since it is for the legislature and the courts to state the public policy of the State of Illinois, the public policy in the area of “alternative delivery sites” is that they are not allowed. It is neither within the designated, or inherent, powers of the Liquor Control Commission to set public policy. Since an administrative agency is a creature of statute, any power or authority claimed by the agency must find its source within the provisions of the statute by which it is created. Granite City Division of National Steel Co. v. Illinois Pollution Control Board, 155 Ill. 2d 149, 171, 613 N.E.2d 719, 729 (1993). Agency interpretations of statutes are not binding on the courts, and we must overturn any agency action that is inconsistent with the statute. Carson Pirie Scott & Co. v. State of Illinois Department of Employment Security, 131 Ill. 2d 23, 34, 544 N.E.2d 772, 777 (1989).

The fundamental principle of statutory construction is to ascertain and give effect to the intent of the legislature. Bowne of Chicago, Inc. v. Human Rights Comm'n, 301 Ill. App. 3d 116, 119, 703 N.E.2d 443, 446 (1998). The most reliable indicator of legislative intent is the statute's language, which must be given its plain and ordinary meaning. Boaden v. Department of Law Enforcement, 171 Ill. 2d 230, 237, 664 N.E.2d 61, 65 (1996).

In Gilchrist v. Human Rights Commission, No. 1‑99‑1054, 1st District, March 27, 2000, the Appellate Court held that Section 8A‑102 of the Human rights Act did not confer upon the Commission the authority to allow an Administrative Law Judge, other than the presiding ALJ, to author the findings and recommended order merely because the parties agree by stipulation to such action. To the extent that the Commission determined that the parties' agreement alone satisfied the requirements of the statute, that determination was erroneous. An erroneous construction of a statute by an administrative agency is not binding on a reviewing court, and even a reviewing court's deference to administrative expertise does not serve to license a governmental agency to expand the operation of a statute. Boaden, supra.

The Court further held that the Commission exceeded its authority in deciding the case in the manner it did, and therefore the cause was remanded so that the matter may be reset for another full hearing. The Court was not unmindful of the fact that its decision prolonged the ultimate resolution of the Petitioner's case, but, even in instances where an administrative body has discretion in its decision, whenever it must choose between justice and speed, it must pick the side of justice. Six‑Brothers King Drive Supermarket, Inc. v. Department of Revenue, 192 Ill. App. 3d 976, 984, 549 N.E.2d 586, 591 (1989).

TPP-27 Special Event Retailers (Not-For-Profit) License

I. Purpose

To set the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and establish the procedures whereby Special Event Retailers (Not-For-Profit) shall be licensed and operate within the State.

II. Policy

It is the policy of this Commission that Special Event Retailers shall be licensed and allowed to purchase alcoholic beverages at “special events” in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Illinois Liquor Control Act and Rules and Regulations of this Commission.

III. Statutory And Regulatory Bases

Sec. 1-3.17.1 of the Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/1-3.17.1) defines the “Special Event Retailer” as “an educational, fraternal, political, civic, religious or non-profit organization which sells or offers for sale beer or wine, or both, only for consumption at the location and on the dates designated by a special event retail license.”

Sec. 5-1(e) of the Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/5-1(e)) delineates the permission granted by the “Special Event Retailer’s (Not-For-Profit) license” to “permit the licensee to purchase alcoholic liquors from an Illinois licensed distributor (unless the licensee purchases less than $500 of alcoholic liquors for the special event, in which case the licensee may purchase the alcoholic liquors from a licensed retailer) and shall allow the licensee to sell and offer for sale, at retail, alcoholic liquors for use or consumption, but not for resale in any form and only at the location and on the specific dates designated for the special event in the license. An applicant for a Special Event Retailer license must also submit with the application proof satisfactory to the State Commission that the applicant will provide dram shop liability insurance in the maximum limits and have local authority approval.”

Regulation 100.330, designated “Advertising” provides:

(a) Pursuant to Sections 6-4, 6-5, and 6-5 of the Act (235 ILCS 5/6-4, 6-5, and 6-6), no retail licensee or entity having more than a 5% interest in a retail licensee shall have any, direct or indirect, interest in or control of any advertising or promotional company which receives funds, directly or indirectly from, or for the account of, any manufacturer, non-resident dealer, broker, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer of alcoholic beverages; nor shall any manufacturer, non-resident dealer, broker, distributor, importing distributor or foreign importer make any payment, direct or indirect, to any retailer or any other entity which provides advertising, promotional or display services for retailers in consideration of any advertising or promotional efforts of any kind not allowed under the Illinois Liquor Control Act or the rules and regulations of the Commission.

(b) Nothing herein shall prohibit any manufacturer, non-resident dealer, distributor, importing distributor, or foreign importer from sponsoring an event at a venue which sole purpose is to host live entertainment, provided that no indirect or direct payment is made to the retailer and that any reference to the retailer in any advertising is incidental to the event itself.

IV. Additional Terms And Definitions

The following additional terms and definitions shall be applicable to “Special Event Retailers (Not-For-Profit)”:

“Special event” shall mean “an occurrence having the same theme, the duration of which shall not exceed fifteen (15) consecutive calendar days.”

“Theme” shall mean “a recurring, unifying subject or idea,” such as is embodied in the concept of “Friday Night Fish Fry,” “Thursday Night Spaghetti Dinner,” or the like.

V. Procedures For Licensure

A. Secure State of Illinois Special Event Retailer’s Liquor License Application and Application Instructions.

B. If the locality in which the special event is to be held issues a “Local Special Event License,” documents necessary to secure the issuance of such a license prior to presenting the State Application to this Commission must be completed. If the locality does not issue an actual license, determine what method of approval it utilizes and secure such approval; i.e., letter from Local Liquor Commissioner or Commission indicating approval of the event. In the City of Chicago, the completed State Application must be presented to the Mayor’s License Commission which will review same and stamp the State Application with its approval.

C. Secure Dram Shop insurance coverage for the special event, which coverage must be in amounts sufficient to satisfy the Local Liquor Commissioner, and must underwrite the premises upon which the event is to be held and all periods of time encompassing the event.

D. Secure and bring either the documents of incorporation of the applicant, or the letter of exemption from the Illinois Department of Revenue.

E. Bring all items referred to in A. through D. above to the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, with appropriate application fee check(s).

VI. Procedures To Be Followed At The “Special Event”

A. License Posted

All licensees must post the Special Event Retailer (Not-For-Profit) license in plain view at the event.

B. Beer Taps must be Clean and Sanitary

Beer taps must be clean and sanitary. The taps must be inspected to ensure they are clean and sanitary. In cases where the distributor provides the beer taps, the distributor will be responsible for providing clean beer taps.

C. Proper Display of the “Alcohol Pregnancy Warning” Sign

An Alcohol Pregnancy Warning Sign is provided to each licensee. This sign must be posted at all sites where the alcoholic beverages are sold and must be visible to all patrons. It is the duty of the licensee to request more signs as needed.

D. Pre-Mix Alcoholic Beverage Requirements

If the licensee is selling any pre-mixed alcoholic beverages, all containers of the pre-mixed alcoholic beverages must be cleaned weekly and pre-mix destroyed weekly. Containers should be covered to prevent outside contaminates from entering. Note: All alcoholic beverages, except pre-mix, must be kept in their original containers (i.e. bottles).

E. Requirements Prohibiting “Happy Hours” Must Be Followed

The Happy Hour provisions of the Illinois Liquor Control Act (235 ILCS 5/6-28) apply to Special Event Retailers.

F. Schedule of Drink Prices

A schedule of drink prices must be available at the site of the event.

G. Liquor Invoices Available at the Event Premises

The invoices for liquor purchased must be available for inspection at the site of the event, not at the office or any other location. All purchases of alcoholic liquor may be made from a licensed distributor, except that purchases of up to $500 can be made from licensed retailers.

H. Uphold Minimum Age Law

It is a criminal offense to serve or sell alcoholic beverages to anyone under the age of 21 years. It is also against the law for a person under 21 years of age to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. The licensee must take steps to prevent the illegal sale of alcohol to persons under 21 years of age. Preventative measures include, but are not limited to, the checking of all identification for age, identity and authenticity, and the posting of warning signs for minors (included in the information package given to each approved Special Event license. Please note that local laws may establish a minimum age to sell or serve alcoholic beverages. The licensee may find out about local restriction by contacting the local authorities where the event is to be held.

I. Prohibited service or sale to an intoxicated person. It is against the law to serve or sell an intoxicated person alcoholic beverages

TPP-28 Employment/Ownership Arrangements Between Classes Of Licensees

I. Purpose

This policy defines two issues:

A. whether employees of one class of license (manufacturer, distributor and retailer) may work for another class of license (e.g. distributor’s employees working for a retail licensee), and

B. whether a person may own interest in different classes of licensees.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) to prevent any employment or ownership arrangements between different classes of licensees which violate the “of value” provisions of 235 ILCS 5/6-5.

III. Background

The applicable statutes are 235 ILCS 5/6-4, which prohibits certain transactions and interests between different classes of licensees, and 235 ILCS 5/6-5, which prohibits the giving away “of value.”

IV. Procedure

A. Employment Arrangements

Employees of one class of licensee may not work for another class of licensee. For instance, a distributor’s employee may not work for a retail licensee.

Secs. 5/6-4 clearly prohibits relations where an officer, associate, member, partner, representative, employee, agent or shareholder owning more than 5% of the outstanding shares seeks a license, or to be affiliated with a licensee on another tier.

But actually the inquiry depends on the status and duties of the employee. While an owner, shareholder, manager, etc., on one tier can't be employed on another tier, an hourly employee for one tier may be employed as an hourly employee on another.

Again, allowance of such employment relations is dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

B. Ownership Arrangements

1. GENERAL RULE - No distiller or wine manufacturer (or any affiliate, agent or shareholder owning more than 5% interest) may be licensed as a distributor or a retailer. No distributor or retailer (or any affiliate, agent or shareholder owning more than 5% interest) may be licensed as a distiller or wine manufacturer (235 ILCS 5/6-4(a)).

2. EXCEPTIONS

a. Beer Distributor exception. A distributor, which on January 1, 1985, was owned by a brewer (or any affiliate, agent or shareholder owning more than 5% interest) may own or acquire an ownership interest of more than 5% in a wine manufacturer and be issued a wine manufacturer’s license (235 ILCS 5/6-4(a)).

b. Grandfather Clause exception. There is a grandfather clause for certain entities licensed prior to June 30, 1947. See 235 ILCS 5.6-4(b)(c)&(d).

c. Brew Pub Exception. A brewer may receive one retailer’s license for the premises in which he actually conducts the manufacturing business. Such retailer’s license shall permit the sale of beer only on such premises.

TPP-29 Retailers Making Excessive Purchases

I. Purpose

This policy defines the procedures to be followed when a retailer makes excessive purchases of alcohol from a wholesaler for purposes of resale.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) to prevent a retailer from purchasing more alcoholic liquor than it can possibly sell for use or consumption.

III. Background

According to 235 ILCS 5/5-1(d), a retailer's license allows the licensee to sell or offer for sale alcoholic liquor only for use or consumption and not for resale in any form. The retailer may warehouse liquor. Thus, when a retailer purchases excessive amounts of alcoholic liquor, more than it could hope to sell to consumers for use and consumption, the logical conclusion is that the retailer hopes to sell or offer to sell alcoholic liquor for resale the presumption may arise that the retailer intends to sell or offer for sale alcoholic liquor for resale.

Regulation 100.30 provides that no licensee shall violate any federal, state, or Illinois law. The violation of any such law is sufficient cause for revocation or suspension of any licensed issued by the ILCC.

IV. Procedure

A. When a distributor reasonably believes a retailer is making excessive purchases in accordance with this policy, the distributor shall immediately notify the Commission. The distributor shall continue to supply products to the retailer until such time as he is notified by the ILCC that the retailer’s actions were in violation of law. In the event it is preliminarily determined by the ILCC that a violation occurred, the retailer and distributor will be notified and the matter shall proceed through the normal disciplinary channels.

B. The distributor may make his own independent determination of this situation by examining the retailer's previous purchase patterns for a particular product and comparing them with current behavior. The distributor shall not unilaterally cease to supply products to the retailer, but shall do so only on direction from the ILCC.

C. The distributor must notify the ILCC immediately of such practice.

D Failure to do so could subject the distributor's license to suspension or revocation pursuant to Regulation 100.30.

TPP-30 Salvaged Alcoholic Liquors

I. Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines for the sale of salvaged alcoholic liquors which have been damaged as a result of flood, wreck, fire or similar occurrence.

II. Policy

It is the policy of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC) to allow the resale of salvaged alcohol by an insurance company, a common carrier, or the duly authorized representative of either, after a determination has been made that proper procedures and safeguards have been followed and approval and release by the Commission.

III. Background

The power to regulate distressed merchandise is given to the Commission under Sec. 5/3-12 of the Liquor Control Act, “Powers and duties of Commission”:

(a) The State Commission shall have the following powers, functions and duties:

(10) To adopt such rules and regulations consistent with the provisions of this Act which shall be necessary for the control, sale or disposition of alcoholic liquor damaged as a result of an accident, wreck, flood, fire or other similar occurrence.

The power given in Sec. 5/3-12 is implemented through the Rules and Regulations of the Commission:

Section 100.150 of the ILCC Rules and Regulations (Regulations) which provides:

a) Insurance companies or their duly authorized representatives may take possession of alcoholic beverages insured by such companies and damaged as a result of flood, wreck, fire or similar occurrence, for which insurance was provided.

b) Common carriers or their duly authorized representatives may take possession of alcoholic beverages transported by such carrier and damaged in transit.

c) Alcoholic beverages salvaged as in paragraphs (a) and (b) may be sold to retail licensees provided the conditions enumerated below shall have been complied with. Alcoholic beverages so salvaged shall be referred to as "distressed merchandise.”

d) Each container of alcoholic beverages sold pursuant to this rule shall be labeled to identify such goods as distressed merchandise. The letters on the label shall be no smaller than pica type, bold faced, not less than 12 point. The label shall be no less than two inches long and one inch wide, and shall be affixed diagonally over the regular label on each container prior to delivery to any retail licensee. The label once applied shall not be capable of removal without damaging the said label or causing damage to the underlying product label. The following statement shall be printed on the label: "The alcoholic beverages contained herein have been designated distressed merchandise by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission. This container has been salvaged from a fire, flood, wreck or similar catastrophe. This label is not affixed by the manufacturer. Do not remove this label."

e) Any insurance company, common carrier or representative of either, seeking to sell distressed merchandise shall first obtain a distributor's license from the Illinois Liquor Control Commission. The application shall provide, "The applicant seeks to sell distressed merchandise in Illinois." Retailer's licenses may also be applied for, if the insurance company, common carrier or representative of either seeks to sell alcoholic liquors to consumers in Illinois.

f) Alcoholic beverages so salvaged outside of Illinois may not be imported into Illinois for purposes of sale pursuant to this rule. Prior to release of distressed merchandise for sale in Illinois, an affidavit by the insurance company's or common carrier's authorized representative must be presented to the Commission stating first-hand knowledge that the distressed merchandise was salvaged from a fire, flood, wreck or similar catastrophe which occurred within the State of Illinois, stating with particularity the time, place and nature of the occurrence, and a complete inventory of the items so salvaged as the quantity, brand names and container sizes.

g) In the event the tax provided under Sections 8-1 through 8-14 of the Act [235 ILCS 5/8-1 through 8-14] is unpaid on the distressed merchandise, the applicant shall make payment of the tax on such merchandise to the Department of Revenue, and evidence of payment must be presented to the Commission prior to release of such distressed merchandise for sale in Illinois.

h) It shall also indicate on its letter of application to sell such distressed merchandise in Illinois, whether the sale shall be by auction or to a designated licensee. If the sale shall be by auction, the time and place of the auction and the name of the auctioneer or other person authorized to sell such distressed merchandise shall be listed. If the sale is to be made directly to a given licensee or licensees, the name and address of the licensee or licensees, together with the current State retail liquor license number of such licensee or licensees shall be listed. No sale may be made by auction to any person, firm or corporation not licensed under the provisions of the Act.

i) Written approval and release for sale made hereunder must first be obtained from the Commission. Approval and release as aforesaid shall not be issued until a physical inspection has been made of the merchandise by an authorized representative of the Commission in order to determine that compliance has been had with the provisions of this Rule. After any sale of distressed merchandise shall have been completed, the insurance company, common carrier or their representative shall report in writing to the Commission the name of the licensee or licensees who have purchased the distressed merchandise, the quantities and brand names of such distressed merchandise.

j) In the event that the insurance company, common carrier by this sale, disposed of less than the entire inventory of distressed merchandise, the written report shall list the remaining inventory, indicating the quantity, container sizes and brand names, the place where such inventory is stored, and the person in control of possession of such inventory.

k) No distressed merchandise shall be sold in Illinois where the original packages shall have been so damaged as to render the label thereon illegible, or when the substantive labeling requirements under Section 6-7 of the Act [235 ILCS 5/6-7] and under Section 100.70 are not complied with as a result of the damage to the container. (Source: Amended at 18 Ill. Reg. 4811, effective March 9, 1994)

The Attorney General of the State of Illinois in Opinion No. 26, dated November 16, 1956, states that: (a) Section 7a of Article VI of the Liquor Control Act (“Warehouses”) is not applicable to a salvage company serving numerous insurance companies; and (b) brand names or trade marked liquor which shall become the property of an insurance company as a result of salvage and which is turned over to a salvage company for distribution does not create an ownership interest in the trade mark or brand name in a salvage company which would require registration with the Illinois Liquor Control Commission under Sec. 5/6-9 of the Liquor Control Act, and also require the designation of the geographical area in which salvage company has been granted a right of resale.

And, finally, the Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act (815 ILCS 720/1, et seq. ) provides in Sec. 5. “Prohibited conduct,” that “No brewer shall: (7) Require a wholesaler to assent to any requirement prohibiting the wholesaler from disposing, after notice to the brewer, of a product which has been deemed salvageable by a local or State health authority. Nothing herein shall prohibit the brewer from having the first right to purchase the salvageable product from the wholesaler at a price not to exceed the original cost of the product or to subsequently repurchase the product from the insurance company or salvage company.”

This granting to a brewery the first option to repurchase salvageable products is a self-executing, contractual provision.

IV. Procedures

A. Who May Salvage

Only persons who are authorized by statute or rule shall be allowed to salvage and conduct sales of distressed alcoholic liquors, namely:

1. Insurance companies or their duly authorized representatives may take possession of alcoholic beverages insured by such companies and damaged as a result of flood, wreck, fire or similar occurrence, for which insurance was provided.

2. Common carriers or their duly authorized representatives may take possession of alcoholic beverages transported by such carrier and damaged in transit.

B. Request for Approval and Release

The process of securing approval and release shall begin with written notification sent or delivered to the Commission Investigations Division. Such notification shall include the following information:

1. Name, address and professional capacity of the person, firm or representative making the request.

2. The date, time and place of the casualty which has resulted in the distressed merchandise.

3.. A complete inventory of all distressed merchandise, including the quantity, brand names and container sizes.

4. A statement of the place and date after the distressed merchandise may be inspected by an agent of the Commission.

C. Inspection and Cleaning of the Distressed Merchandise

Permission is granted with the understanding that each container was cle