Emilio Mignucci

Pennsylvania's new Senate Bill 688, effective September 15, 2024, modernizes alcohol sales by allowing a broader range of retailers to sell ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails. With this change, businesses like grocery stores and restaurants can now sell canned cocktails made with spirits. But compliance is key—SB 688 mandates age verification through ID scanners for customers under 35, offering legal protection for retailers using the technology properly. Minor Decliner’s ID scanners are the perfect solution to this new requirement. Our mobile and countertop solutions ensure fast, accurate age checks, reduce human error and help you stay compliant. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/efxUG8_r #IDScanners #SB688 #RTD #AgeVerification #Compliance

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New Liquor Laws in Pennsylvania this Month: • READY-TO-DRINK COCKTAIL PERMITS & RULES: A new ready-to-drink cocktail permit will authorize permittees to sell spirits-based cocktails ranging from 0.5% alcohol beverage by volume (ABV) to 12.5% ABV in original containers up to 16 ounces to-go. This became effective on Sept. 16. • HAPPY HOUR EXTENSIONS: Effective Sept. 13, this Act extends Happy Hour for qualifying retail liquor licensees from a maximum of 14 hours per week to 24 hours per week. • QUANTITY OR CASE DISCOUNTS: Distributors and importing distributors can offer case discounts to licensees and retail customers. Limited wineries can offer case discounts only to retail (non-licensee) customers. • MORE ON THE NEW LAWS: https://lnkd.in/eYtcV7MT • PA DUI LAW & PENALTIES: https://lnkd.in/g6MCNsyb #DUI #DUIdefense #DUIattorney #criminaldefense #InnocentUntilProvenGuilty

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As we get closer to the American Distilling Institute Conference this month, I thought this article from Maria Pearman, CPA on the 'best practices' for budgeting in your distillery was a good re-read. #ADI24 #craftbeverage #ADI

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This week's market report shows overall improvements, with favorable weather boosting quality. Prices for iceberg lettuce, romaine, zucchini, and yellow squash are dropping, while green and red bell peppers are seeing price increases. Border issues are causing higher prices for avocados and potentially other commodities. Stay tuned for updates and check out the full produce market report here. #producemarket #producemarketreport #cheflife #avocados

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Does My Voice Matter? It is a common misconception that only the large restaurant groups or corporate giants need to be part of their state restaurant association; however, small operators have a huge impact and can equally benefit from membership. In fact, 97% of restaurants in Connecticut are independently owned, the largest number in the country! (Source: National Restaurant Association, based on 2023 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bureau of Economic Analysis and U.S. Census Bureau). Independent restaurants are a vital part of their communities and have unique perspectives on local issues. By being active in their state association, restaurant owners and operators can influence policies that affect their businesses. Read more here via Beverage Publications, Inc. (CT & RI Beverage Journals) https://lnkd.in/gmzcWSxe

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Value of U.S. Wine, Beer, and Spirits Imports, 1992-2023. 2023 values: Spirits $11,122m, Wine $6,684m, Beer $6,866

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Price sensitivity in foodservice isn't going away. Brands need to give commercial and non-commercial buyers a reason to look past the lowest bidder. Here are 4 key strengths to lean into when positioning a premium foodservice product against commodity offerings. https://lnkd.in/gthUH3Jd

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Heads up! The deadline for food & beverage brands to submit an application for The Big Connecticut Food Event has been extended to 11:59pm on Sunday January 5. See below or visit ctfoodevent.com for more information about the participation process for Connecticut food & beverage brands and the event overall. ### ABOUT The Big Connecticut Food Event is an annual one-day event that gathers CPG/wholesale-focused food & beverage brands and other key stakeholders spanning the Connecticut food entrepreneurship ecosystem to network, share ideas, and showcase products and services. The upcoming Big Connecticut Food Event will take place on Saturday 3/1/25 at the Yale School of Management in New Haven. CONTENT 💰 $50k+ pitch competition for 5 finalist emerging Connecticut brands 🥫 Sampling and tabling from 30+ emerging Connecticut brands and solutions providers 🤝 One-on-one coaching sessions between brands and industry experts 🎤 Panel discussions with industry leaders FOOD & BEV BRAND PARTICIPATION PROCESS * Please note that the pitch competition and tabling/sampling are only available for CPG/wholesale-focused brands (e.g. a product sold in a grocer). * Submit an application at https://lnkd.in/eFBCt-2M. * Applications are initially scored by our planning team. * Finalists: The top 5 scoring brands will be invited to participate in the pitch competition and set up a table at the event. * Semi-finalists: The next 25 highest-scoring brands after the finalists will also be invited to set up sampling tables at the event. * We will respond to you by 1/20/25 with the results of your application. JUDGING CRITERIA FOR FOOD & BEV BRANDS * Target market -- Addressable target market is large and/or growing, or is a high-priced niche. Customer is well-defined. * Solution -- Product is differentiated vs. competition: better, faster, cheaper, quality, efficient, convenient, focused. * Team/board/advisors -- Evidence of more than just founder-led and -run. Relevant industry knowledge, skills, leadership experience, key relationships, prior successes and/or failures. * Traction -- Stated planned milestones, minimal viable product built, market validation, key success metrics, revenue growth, partners * Impact on the company -- Would this company stand to gain significant advancement and opportunities by being featured at our event? Will an award help them move their stated project along and help take the company further? * Women- or BIPOC-owned -- Business owners represent one or more sytemically disadvantaged identities (race, gender, etc..) * Sustainable or regenerative -- Sustainable/regenerative practices are a significant component of product and business (ingredient sourcing, packaging, energy use..)

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Saperavi is making a comeback! Check out this article featuring our winery and our impact on the revival of Saperavi. https://lnkd.in/e_H5WfQc

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The Future of Specialty Foods 🌿 As we navigate the dynamic world of specialty foods, staying ahead of the curve is more critical than ever. The August 2024 Trend Report from Specialty Food Association provides invaluable insights into the seasonal shifts shaping our industry. 🌱 From the growing emphasis on locally sourced ingredients to the rising demand for sustainability, this report offers a deep dive into the trends that are defining consumer preferences and driving innovation. Whether you're a producer, retailer, or simply passionate about food, understanding these shifts is key to thriving in today's market. 📊 Key Highlights: 1. Local and Sustainable: Consumers are more conscious of where their food comes from, favoring products that support local economies and minimize environmental impact. 2. Health and Wellness: The focus on health continues to grow, with seasonal superfoods and functional ingredients leading the way. 3. Cultural Influence: Global flavors are making their mark, with consumers eager to explore new tastes and culinary traditions. #SpecialtyFood #SeasonalTrends #FoodIndustry #Sustainability #Innovation #FoodInnovation #LocalFood #FarmToTable #FoodSustainability #HealthyEating #OrganicFood #FoodTrends #FoodBusiness #CulinaryArts #GourmetFood #ArtisanFood #FoodEntrepreneur #ConsumerTrends #EthicalEating #FutureOfFood

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Convenience stores have experienced a surge in alcohol sales, notably in categories like ready-to-drink cocktails and flavored malt beverages, with some retailers observing a 109% increase in RTD cocktail sales. This trend reflects changing consumer preferences, particularly as shoppers opt for convenient options amidst potential inflation concerns, foregoing traditional ingredient shopping for homemade cocktails. By aligning commercial real estate investments with evolving consumer preferences, investors can maximize the value and performance of their properties. Full insights available at forbes.com

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Raintree's very own Julia Berman recently appeared on The Perfect Franchise podcast to discuss the founding story and franchise success of Toastique. This episode offers insight into how Toastique's commitment to health and nutrition has set a new standard in the fast-casual dining industry! This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the evolving landscape of health-focused dining and franchise opportunities. Toastique's story serves as an inspiring example of how an innovative business model can lead to significant success in today's market! #podcast #healthy #healthandwellness #franchise #franchiseopportunity

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Explore how #smallbusinesses Yishi Foods and Dana's Bakery are using #GS1Standards for growth, and how they are preparing for FSMA Rule 204. Michelle Covey, VP at GS1 US, provides insight. https://ow.ly/OOq150Rihvq bake magazine

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Many foods on the U.S. FDA’s Food #Traceability List are staples on restaurant menus. Jeff Cowan of GS1 US explains what restaurant and fast-food operators need to know about FSMA Rule 204. https://ow.ly/i6rY50S2yl1 Fast Casual #foodsafety

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