In the South African Liquor industry, micro-manufacturers are fast becoming considered an integral piece of the puzzle when it comes to developing an inclusive, sustainable, and responsible industry. With the increasing support of micro-manufacturers as a whole, it is important to understand exactly what a micro-manufacturer is and what is expected of them.
As South Africa’s leading liquor licence consultant, Leon Slotow Associates has all the information you need.
What Is A Micro-manufacturer?
Essentially, a micro-manufacturer is a person or company that makes liquor of any kind, including beer, traditional African beer (sorghum beer), wine and spirits, but does not exceed the volume thresholds prescribed by The National Liquor Act 2003 (Act No.59 of 2003). Examples of a micro-manufacturer in South Africa can include small wine farms and craft beer manufacturers.
What Are The Thresholds?
According to the Act, a micro-manufacturer is any entity manufacturing liquor in volumes under the following quantities:
- Spirits: 2 million litres
- Beer: 100 million litres
- Wine: 4 million litres
- Traditional African beer (sorghum beer): 50 million litres
What Is Required of a Micro-Manufacturer?
In South Africa, any manufacturer or distributor of liquor must hold a valid liquor licence and abide by the Act, regardless of whether they are considered a micro or macro entity. Micro-manufacturers must apply for and obtain a liquor licence and ensure that they do not produce liquor in quantities that exceed the thresholds. It is important to keep in mind that micro-manufacturers will be expected to renew their liquor licence annually. Continuing to trade without renewing a liquor licence is an offence punishable by law.
How To Ensure That You Are A Legally Compliant Micro-manufacturer
Keeping compliant with guidelines and legislation is essential if you want to keep your liquor licence and continue manufacturing liquor without breaking the law. Keeping up with legislative changes and expectations can feel like a full-time job.
Working with a liquor licence lawyer or liquor licence consultant can help simplify the process. Working with experts in the field whose job is to help you follow the right laws and tick the right boxes means that you have one less thing on your plate, allowing you to focus on what you do best.
Leon Slotow Associates is South Africa’s premier liquor licence consultant and is here to help ensure that micro-manufacturers, retailers and restaurateurs have access to everything they need to remain compliant. We can assist with everything from liquor licence renewal to helping you obtain a temporary liquor licence in South Africa. If you are a micro-manufacturer in need of our expertise, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
