TTB Trade Practices

TTB is committed to creating a fair and level playing field nationwide for alcohol beverage industry members of all sizes through a strong regulatory compliance program and active enforcement of the trade practice provisions of the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (FAA Act). (See sections 105(a) through (d) of the FAA Act (27 U.S.C. 205(a)–(d)) for more information.) These provisions prohibit industry members from engaging in the following marketing practices that threaten the independence of retailers and/or give the industry members an unfair advantage over their competitors:

• Exclusive outlet
• Tied house
• Commercial bribery
• Consignment sales

Industry members who engage in these anti-competitive practices damage other, law-abiding businesses and prevent consumers from enjoying a wide selection of products.

Report to Congress

TTB FY20 Report on FAA Act Enforcement

This file contains 8 identical copies of the report as submitted to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees and Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Subcommittees.

Key Trade Practices Topics

	Laws and Regulations Regulatory information relating to trade practices		Rulings Rulings related to trade practices issued by TTB and its predecessor agencies
	Industry Circulars Industry Circulars related to trade practices issued by TTB and its predecessor agencies		Liquor Laws and Regulations for Retail Dealers Regulatory information relating to trade practices
Educational Resources TTB Trade Practices Video Series
	FAA Act History & Background (16:19) In this video we introduce the trade practice rules and the history leading up to the rules. We also discuss various terms every industry member should know. Watch video		Tied House (14:28) In this video we discuss Tied House practices and the rules and regulations associated with them.  Watch video
	Exclusive Outlet (11:30) In this video we discuss arrangements which are considered Exclusive Outlets and the rules and regulations that cover these activities. Watch video		Commercial Bribery (9:52) In this video we explain activities considered Commercial Bribery and the rules and regulations that cover these activities. Watch video
	Consignment Sales (12:07) We explain prohibited arrangements under the Consignment Sales rules and regulations. Watch video
Other media
	Federal Trade Practices: What Every Industry Member Should Know Slideshow

This information is being issued to help the public to understand and comply with the laws and regulations that the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau administers. It is not intended to establish any new, or change any existing, definitions, interpretations, standards, or procedures regarding those laws and regulations. For specific questions about how the trade practice laws pertain to activities in Puerto Rico or other United States territories you may email TTB at tradepractices@ttb.gov.