AB-66 – Trade Practice Operational Guidance
What wholesalers can and cannot do when working with retailers
Maryland continues to address common questions about what wholesalers are allowed to do when working with retailers, and this guidance provides clear answers to frequent compliance issues related to training, data sharing, inventory, and product handling.
What you need to know
- Free products cannot be provided to retailers
- Sales data cannot be shared with specific retailers
- Inventory and stocking activities are limited
- Rules vary depending on product type and activity
Who This Applies To
This guidance applies to:
- Alcohol wholesalers
- Businesses interacting with retail licensees
Providing Free Products
Wholesalers may NOT:
- Provide alcoholic products to retailers at no charge
This includes:
- Training purposes
Free products are considered a gift or gratuity and are not allowed.
Retailers may also not accept them.
Product Sampling
Sampling is allowed only if:
- It meets specific regulatory requirements
Sampling:
- Cannot be used as a substitute for training
- Must follow all applicable rules
Sales and Marketing Data
Wholesalers may:
- Share sales or marketing data with the industry as a whole
- Publish information publicly (such as on a website)
Wholesalers may NOT:
- Provide data to a specific retailer or organization
- Share information that creates a competitive advantage
Stocking and Displays
Wholesalers may:
- Build beer displays
- Rotate beer stock for freshness
Wholesalers may NOT:
- Restock shelves for wine or distilled spirits
- Restock beer shelves
- Rebuild existing displays
Inventory Services
Wholesalers may:
- Provide inventory information using their own forms
- Use standardized processes across all accounts
Wholesalers may NOT:
- Enter data into a retailer’s proprietary system or forms
What This Means for Businesses
Wholesalers should:
- Avoid providing anything of value to retailers
- Ensure all services comply with trade practice rules
- Standardize processes across all accounts
- Review activities regularly to avoid violations
Important Notes
- Many common business practices may be restricted
- Violations often occur through routine interactions
- Compliance depends on understanding these limits
Need Help?
For questions about trade practice rules, contact the ATCC: 410-260-7314 ext. 2 or [email protected]