Employment Law Focus: Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC You have probably heard about the recent changes to Michigan’s employment laws via the Earned Sick Time Act (“ESTA”) that was approved by Michigan lawmakers. Especially with significant changes like these, it is crucial for you to stay informed and…
Trademark and Branding Protection for Michigan Wineries Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC The Michigan wine industry is thriving, with more than 170 wineries producing distinctive wines that draw tourists and wine enthusiasts to the State’s tasting rooms and beautiful vineyards. As more winemakers come to market, competition grows, and branding and trademark protection…
Wine (and Beer) Tasting Events at a Retailer’s Location Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Holding a tasting, or sampling, event at a retailer may be an effective way to introduce your product to consumers. Like all regulatory topics related to wine and beer, there are several items to keep in mind if…
The Attorney General’s Enforcement of Michigan Direct Shipping Liquor Laws Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC A few months ago, I wrote about the requirements to ship wine directly to the consumer in Michigan and complying with the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (“MLCC”) requirements to do so. Both in-state and out-of-state wineries or…
Winery Licensing Process Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC In the last few editions of the monthly Wine Law article, I described the various licenses available for both manufacturers and retailers. This month, the article will briefly cover the process of obtaining one of those licenses. The complexities of Wine Maker and…
Navigating the Liquor License Landscape for Retailers Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Last month in the Wine Law article, I briefly described different types of liquor licenses available in Michigan for manufacturers of wine, beer, or spirits. There are different liquor licenses available for retailers. Within the retail tier of licenses, there are…
Navigating the Liquor License and Permit Landscape for Manufacturers Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Having a general understanding of the various types of liquor licenses and permits available will help you maximize revenue opportunities while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. In Michigan, manufacturers of wine, beer, or spirits are part of the…
Michigan’s Three-Tiered System – Friend or Foe? Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC In Michigan, the month of May is Wine Month – and this May is a special one with the launch of the Taste Michigan brand and the “Cool is Hot” marketing campaign promoting Michigan wine. (Special shout out to Mark…
Complying with Michigan’s direct-to-consumer shipping regulations. Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Michigan has had a complex history regarding direct shipping. In fact, Michigan (along with New York) was at the center of an important United States Supreme Court case decided in 2005. Prior to that ruling, Michigan allowed in-state wineries to ship to…
. Nutrition, Ingredient, and Allergen Information on Wine Labels? Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC One of the last steps before a bottle of Michigan wine is opened and enjoyed by a fortunate consumer is labeling. Like everything involving alcohol, there are numerous Michigan and federal laws and regulations pertaining to wine labels and…
