Understanding Different Beverage Purchasing Models
Consumers can obtain alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages through several different purchasing models.
These models may differ significantly in terms of how products are purchased, delivered, collected and transported.
DrinkData classifies merchants according to their operating model in order to improve transparency and help consumers better understand the available alternatives.
The information on this page is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
Why Purchasing Models Matter
Different purchasing models involve different participants, responsibilities and practical arrangements.
Understanding these differences helps consumers:
- Compare available options
- Understand how products are obtained
- Identify available delivery methods
- Understand collection arrangements
- Make informed purchasing decisions
Tax and Regulatory Responsibilities
Different purchasing models may involve different responsibilities regarding taxation, packaging obligations and transportation arrangements.
The allocation of responsibilities depends on the purchasing model used and the actual circumstances of each transaction.
Consumers should always verify applicable requirements with relevant authorities and merchants.
DrinkData provides general information intended to improve understanding of different purchasing models.
Merchant Categories
To improve transparency, DrinkData classifies merchants according to their operating model.
Distance Sellers
What Is Distance Selling?
In a distance selling model, a merchant offers products for sale and delivery to the destination country.
The consumer places an order directly with the merchant, and the merchant arranges delivery through its chosen logistics arrangements.
Distance selling typically provides consumers with a convenient purchasing process that includes both the sale and delivery of products.
Typical Characteristics
- Products are ordered remotely
- Delivery is offered by the merchant
- The merchant arranges transportation
- Products are delivered to the customer
- The merchant typically assumes responsibility for applicable destination-country obligations
DrinkData identifies these merchants as Distance Sellers.
Self-Collection Merchants
What Is Self-Collection?
In a self-collection model, products are made available outside Finland for collection by the customer.
The merchant:
- Offers collection abroad
- Does not offer delivery to Finland
- Does not arrange transportation to Finland
The customer:
- Collects the products
- Arranges transportation independently
- Personally transports or imports the products
Typical Characteristics
- Collection takes place outside Finland
- No delivery to Finland is offered
- Transportation is not arranged by the merchant
- Customers arrange transportation independently
- Products are personally imported by the customer
When products are transported to Finland by the customer or through transportation arranged independently by the customer, the customer may typically assume responsibility for obligations associated with importing the products.
DrinkData identifies these merchants as Self-Collection Merchants.
Duty Free and Travel Retail
Duty free and travel retail purchases are made through travel-related sales channels.
Duty free and travel retail purchases are made through travel-related sales channels.
Examples include:
- Airport retailers
- Ferry operators
- Cruise operators
- Travel retail businesses
These channels often offer products that are purchased in connection with international travel.
Typical Characteristics
- Purchase occurs in a travel environment
- Products are sold through travel retail channels
- Availability may vary by route, destination or location
- Applicable rules may vary depending on travel circumstances
DrinkData identifies these businesses as Duty Free & Travel Retail Operators.
Why DrinkData Uses Merchant Categories
DrinkData does not evaluate which purchasing model is better or worse.
Our objective is to provide transparent information that helps consumers understand how different merchant models operate.
Merchant categories help users understand:
- Whether delivery is available
- Where products are collected
- How products are obtained
- Which purchasing options are offered
This classification system improves transparency and reduces confusion for consumers.
Independent Market Information
DrinkData provides information and educational content.
DrinkData does not:
- Sell products
- Process payments
- Arrange transportation
- Provide legal advice
- Provide tax advice
Consumers should always verify specific legal, tax and regulatory questions with relevant authorities or professional advisers.
Learn More
Additional information is available on:
These resources provide more detailed information about beverage markets, merchant categories and purchasing options.
Merchant Categories on DrinkData
DrinkData currently uses the following merchant categories:
| Merchant type | Delivery to Finland | Transport arranged by Merchant | Product Collection | Typical Responsibility for Alcohol Excise Duty and Packaging Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance Seller | Yes | Yes | Delivery to customer | Merchant |
| Self-Collection Merchant | No | No | Collection abroad | Consumer** |
| Duty Free & Travel Retail | Not applicable | Not applicable | Purchase during travel | Depends on circumstances |
* General information only. Actual responsibilities depend on applicable legislation and the circumstances of each transaction.
** Where the customer independently arranges transportation and imports products into Finland.
Understanding the Market Starts with Understanding the Model
DrinkData | JuomaInfo
Independent Nordic Market Information Platform