We’ve been connected in with Inertia Beverage Group pretty much since the beginning of our blog as we always thought they were doing great things. Since their recent acquisition of New Vine Logistics, adding fulfillment to their service offering, they have really completed the direct sales equation. It keeps the ridiculous markups of the 3-tier system, mainly from wholesalers, from being imposed on the consumer, allowing people to buy a case of quality wine for cheaper than it would be at their local retailer. It also gives many markets access to our product immediately. The direct sales system, both consumer and trade, has amazing potential.

However, it is a constant struggle because of bills like the House Resolution 5034, which if passed will shut down direct to consumer shipping of wine. All the big wholesalers are supporting this, obviously because they sense the system recognizing their lack of real value in the supply chain. Thus, it keeps them in control and keeps all the margin in their pockets. They say its for safety reasons to prevent kids from buying alcohol, but we all know that’s absurd. How many underage kids are buying wine online? Yeah, the big wholesalers just genuinely care about the health and safety of people… I guess that’s why they are pioneering research proving the health effects of red wine and promoting healthy moderate drinking habits to maximize the health benefits. Oh wait, they’re not?

Free The Grapes is doing great things to maintain and further open the direct to consumer channels.  Check them out and support their cause to help the direct channel open up.

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