Who is termed a 'Licensee' in the context of alcohol distribution?

A 'Licensee' in the context of alcohol distribution refers to a company or entity that has been issued a license by the appropriate authority, such as the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC), to sell alcoholic beverages. This designation allows the licensee to legally engage in the distribution and sale of alcohol, ensuring that they comply with regulatory standards concerning alcohol sales.

Understanding this term is critical in the context of alcohol laws because it emphasizes the importance of having a license for legal operation in the alcoholic beverage market. Businesses operating without a proper license can face significant legal penalties.

While servers, bartenders, and individuals of legal drinking age play crucial roles in the alcohol industry, they do not hold the same legal standing as a 'Licensee.' A server or bartender, for example, operates under the authority of the license held by their employer and may require additional training permits, but they are not categorized as a licensee themselves.