Selling in Control States: Ohio

Ohio, one of 17 beverage alcohol control states, presents an enticing opportunity for alcohol brands looking to expand their market presence. With a legal drinking age population of 8.4 million, Ohio offers a significant consumer base. The state’s spirit sales are overseen by the Ohio Division of Liquor Control (OHLQ), with state liquor agencies generating a remarkable $1.74 billion in high-proof liquor sales in 2022.

Retail and wholesale liquor sales rights are owned by JobsOhio, an economic development organization. At the same time, private businesses, referred to as agencies, operate retail outlets for beer, wine, and low-proof mixed beverages.

How to Get Listed in Ohio

To enter the Ohio market, alcohol brands have two options: special orders or full listings. These are both common paths to entry in liquor control states. In Ohio, special order and full listing submissions are handled in their own unique manner in accordance with state law.

Special Orders

Special orders require essential documents such as an OH Listing Requests Document, a Marketing document, a Bottle and UPC Image, a Complete product specification, and a Wholesale commitment letter showing listed accounts committed to purchasing the brand’s product.

Alternatively, brands can choose the full listing option, which involves submitting the same set of documents as special orders. For those working with Park Street, their compliance team can assist in consolidating and submitting the required documents through the OHLQ portal.

It’s important to keep in mind that Ohio has specific quarterly deadlines for submissions. To apply for eligibility, brands must submit their listing request by:

• September 30 to be listed on January 1
• December 31 to be listed on April 1
• March 31 to be listed on July 1
• June 30 to be listed on October 1

Understanding and complying with Ohio’s alcohol regulation framework and distribution model is key to success in the state’s market. Collaborating with compliance coordinators, particularly those experienced in alcohol control states like Ohio, can streamline the listing submission process and increase the chances of success.

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