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Alcohol Sales at Restaurants and Bars Expected to Increase by Nearly 2 Percent in 2011, Says Technomic

"The past several years were brutal for the alcohol category in bars and restaurants. Consumers were trading down to value offerings or simply not ordering alcohol at all," said David Henkes, Vice President at Technomic and head of the firm's On-Premise Practice. "As conditions improve, we expect to see positive sales growth in 2011."

Despite positive growth forecasts, however, Henkes cautions that the industry still has a ways to go. "While a positive forecast is good news for bars and restaurants, the fact is that we're comparing 2011 to a very weak year in 2010. There are still some longer-term structural issues in the economy, including unemployment, that tell us that the improvement in alcohol sales won't be as robust as it has been after previous downturns."

Spirits-based drinks will see the highest rate of growth in 2011 at 2.3 percent, with some return to more expensive cocktails and premium brands. Wine sales will increase by 1.4 percent but are being depressed by a move toward more wines-by-the-glass and lower-priced value wines. Beer sales are expected to grow 1.6 percent and will be supported by continued strength in the craft/microbrew beer category.

About Technomic

Technomic provides clients with the facts, insights and consulting support they need to enhance their business strategies, decisions and results. Its services include numerous publications and digital products, as well as proprietary studies and ongoing research on all aspects of the food and beverage industry.

Technomic, Inc.
Press Contact:
Chris Urban, 312-506-3929
curban@technomic.com