What changes on December 31
California's permission for craft distillers to ship spirits directly to consumers ends December 31, 2026. AB 1246 extended that privilege for one year only, and it repeals on January 1, 2027. The California ABC has confirmed that Type 94 Direct Shipper permits are valid only for the calendar year 2026.
Tasting-room sales are not affected. What goes away is the shipment. The good news: you don't have to lose those customers.
Keep your consumer shipments safe with LibDib
When direct shipping ends, your consumer orders can keep moving through the three-tier system, and LibDib can be your licensed distributor. You sell to LibDib, LibDib sells to a licensed California retailer, and that retailer fulfills your consumer orders under its own license.
Find new distribution opportunities
Protecting your current customers is the first step. LibDib can also help you reach new ones.
- California Distilleries section. Our California marketplace has a dedicated section for California distilleries, which puts your brand in front of the retail and on-premise Buyers who already order through LibDib. Support local!
- Portfolio Managers. Depending on your membership level, a LibDib Portfolio Manager can advise you on new opportunities, from accounts worth pursuing to markets that fit your brand. Silver and Gold memberships include Portfolio Manager support.
The end of direct shipping is a good moment to look beyond one channel. A licensed distributor puts your spirits on more shelves and menus, not just back in the same customers' hands.
We're here to help
December 31 is close, and setting up distribution takes time. Reach out now so your customers don't see a gap in January.
Book a call with Holly, our Membership Manager, to talk through DTC fulfillment and the membership that fits your distillery: Click Here to Schedule a Meeting.
Questions first? Email us at makers@libdib.com.