Dimitrios G. Christopoulos Shares Insights on Commercial Bribery Risks in Beer Marketer’s Insights

Dimitri, who spoke on this topic during a panel at this year’s National Conference of State Liquor Administrators, emphasized that supplier incentive programs often test compliance boundaries, stating, “How many promotions have you seen involving a supplier incentivizing distributor salespeople with the reward of a ‘free trip’? It’s a very concerning practice.”

He noted that for programs to remain compliant, “the thing of value has to be owned by the wholesaler in the first place,” ensuring proper control and tax reporting. Without proper ownership by the wholesaler, the arrangement may constitute inducement, especially if the wholesaler is “acting as a mere conduit” to get the incentive to an employee, a setup Dimitri cautions is likely a violation.

The article follows a recent case that drew regulatory scrutiny around supplier practices and incentive structures. Read the full article here (subscription required).

Dimitri has extensive experience representing suppliers, importers, distributors and retailers before federal, state and local regulatory commissions. Clients seek his unique and intricate understanding of all aspects of the beverage alcohol and hospitality industry in Chicago, throughout Illinois and nationwide. He is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and has taught other attorneys on industry issues for continuing legal education.

Beer Marketer’s Insights is a leading industry publication delivering critical updates and market analysis across the alcohol beverage sector.