TTB issued Ruling 2016-1 in response to complaints from a number of industry members who expressed concerns over potential abuse of the narrow Tied-House exception provided for in 27 CFR 6.99(b), which removes only the act of providing a recommended shelf plan or shelf schematic from the prohibited means to induce enumerated in 27 U.S.C. 205(b)(3). As a result of these complaints, TTB conducted a limited market review pertaining to traditional “category management” activities and the concerns that were brought to its attention. As a result of its market review, TTB found that there is a misunderstanding about what activities are permitted under the § 6.99(b) exception. Accordingly, TTB issued TTB Ruling 2016-1 to clarify what is and is not exempted under such exception.