Distilled Spirits Consumption Increases for 15th Straight Year; Industry Breaks 200 Million Cases

NORWALK, Conn., Aug. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The distilled spirits industry continued to advance in volume and popularity in 2012.  New laws making spirits more accessible for purchase have helped the industry surpass 200 million cases for the first time.  According to the Beverage Information Group's Liquor Handbook 2013, distilled spirits consumption rose 3.5% to 205.6 million 9-liter cases last year. 

In addition to the modernization of liquor laws, more spirits products are advertised on television than ever before.  This has led the public to be more accepting of the distilled spirits industry, and has resulted in fewer advertising restrictions.  Broadcast advertising was up overall last year, with Rum, Vodka, Straights and Cordials & Liqueurs leading the pack.

In 2012, all categories posted increases with the exception of Gin, which was down 0.1%, and Prepared Cocktails, which decreased 3.3%.  In addition, retail dollar sales for distilled spirits grew at a faster rate than case sales.  This growth was influenced by the popularity of high-end spirits among on-premise outlets.  Total on-premise retail dollar sales increased 6.3% with spirits showing a 5.9% gain, reaching $37.3 billion in 2012.

"Today's consumer is more adventurous and willing to try new brands and flavors," says Adam Rogers, Senior Research Analyst for the Beverage Information Group, Norwalk, Conn.  "Their preferences have shifted to sweeter taste profiles and the distilled spirits industry has developed products to cater to them."

Total consumption is projected to end 2013 up 3.5% at 212.8 million 9-liter cases.  Every category with the exception of Prepared Cocktails is expected to increase. 

The 2013 Liquor Handbook is the most comprehensive source of information on U.S. spirits and sales trends.  It includes consumption and projection information by category and by market, tracks leading brands and reports historical data. 

The 2013 Liquor Handbook is $945; handbook with CD is $1,145.  Shipping and handling is $15 for U.S. orders; $25 for international orders.  The publications can be purchased at www.bevinfostore.com or by calling Cynthia Porter at (630)762-8709.

About the Beverage Information Group
The Beverage Information Group, a division of Specialty Information Media LLC, serves all segments of the beverage alcohol industry through Cheers, Beverage Dynamics and StateWays magazines, Handbooks, Beverage Research and www.bevinfogroup.com.

Contacts:
The Beverage Information Group
Adam Rogers, Senior Research Analyst
203-855-8499
[email protected]

Cynthia Porter, Handbook Sales Executive
630-762-8709
[email protected] 
www.bevinfostore.com

SOURCE Beverage Information Group