In 2022, customers are embracing fine spirits, ready-to-drink cocktails, liqueurs, and low and non-alcoholic beverages. They're also starting to favor portable formats, like cans, and enjoy the benefits of beer, wine, and liquor delivery.
Leverage these top trends in the alcohol industry to increase your restaurant’s revenue in 2022.
Ready to Drink Cocktails - Across the board, most experts predict ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails will continue to sell well. Over the last two years, the category took off as bars and restaurants intermittently closed and outdoor activities gained traction; plus, they offer an alternative to similarly successful canned hard seltzers.
Low-alcohol or no-alcohol options will increase - Health-conscious consumers fuel the trend for drinks with low or no alcohol. Many companies have rushed to fill that space with everything from non-alcoholic botanical "gin" to retail stores that exclusively stock non-alcoholic brands. It’s becoming a lifestyle for consumers nationwide.
Give it to me straight -Tequila, Cognac, and American whiskey - there is nothing like the taste of a fine spirit. Tequila will continue to lead the growth of mainstream spirits,” says SipSource analyst Dale Stratton. "Tequila is taking some occasions away from vodka, and it's taking some occasions away from everything." Cognac and American whiskey, particularly bourbon and rye, are also positioned to continue to grow in 2022.
Craft beer is still booming - Some worried that the craft brewing market will become oversaturated with so many new companies starting up. In reality, the larger brewing companies continue to see their sales decline. With many brews having a local flair and small breweries opening their doors for tours and tasting sessions, microbrews have developed a loyal following.
Youthful wine drinkers - The well-known health benefits and a sense of sophistication have led younger generations to embrace the wine industry. Adding variety and improving the quality of your wine selection can increase sales of an item with a very high-profit margin. Additionally, wine pairs well with nearly every food and can also be used to sell side items like artisanal cheeses, bread, and chocolates.
But wait. Supply Chain Shortages Strike Again - Shortages of everything from Champagne to whiskey have begun, says David Ozgo, chief economist with the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. "The distilled spirits industry is like everyone else in America," says Ozgo. "We're facing the same challenges regarding being able to import products. Clearly, space on container ships is in very, very short supply.”
These supply chain delays affect everything from the aluminum used to make bottle caps to the glass used for bottles to the glue that affixes labels.
But don’t let current shortages deter you. Alcohol sales can have a tremendous impact on your bottom line. Keeping up with the latest trends will give you an edge on the competition. If you need funding to add new products and keep your inventory stocked, Quikstone can help. Since 2005, thousands of merchants have grown their businesses with working capital from Quikstone. We can help you too. Contact us to learn more.
