Wholesale Liquor Licence
A wholesaler liquor licence is a restricted sub-type of the producer/wholesaler licence.
A wholesaler licence applies where the business does not qualify as a 'producer' and therefore does not get the benefit of the extra authorisations under the combined producer/wholesaler licence type.
As such, a wholesaler liquor licence only permits the sale of liquor to businesses that hold a liquor licence (for example restaurants, bottle shops and small bars). A wholesaler liquor licence may also sell liquor to other wholesalers.
Common business models
Home business based liquor licences will often utilise web-based advertising and payment platforms in conjunction with 3PL (third party logistics) providers to manage receiving, storing, packing, and shipping services. All logistics are managed offsite, away from the home business.
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Businesses may also operate out of their own warehouse and distribution facilities, managing the complete logistics experience.
Where is the location of the licence?
The liquor licence is typically located where the administrative duties are undertaken (for example the processing of orders and sales). This could be within a:
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Home office - subject to satisfying the requirements of 'exempt development'
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Warehouse or industrial facility - subject council development approval
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Business suite - subject to council development approval
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There is no requirement to licence the area where liquor is stored.
Special licence conditions
In order to enforce the restricted purpose of this licence sub-type, a number of special licence conditions will usually be imposed, including:
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restricting sales to those taken via electronic means, such as over the internet (no customers may purchase liquor in person)
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prohibiting the delivery or storage of liquor at the licensed premises (unless council approval is in place)
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prohibiting the display of advertising material at the licensed premises
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prohibiting the conduct of liquor tastings at the licensed premises
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