Alcohol is an integral part of many small businesses and restaurant, bar and liquor store owners need to stay current with the latest trends to keep the booze, and cash, flowing.  To increase alcohol sales, you need to know what your customers want and be able to offer something unique.  Here we take a look at five top trends dominating the alcohol industry.

Give It To Me Straight

Because of the poor quality of the spirits being produced during prohibition the cocktail was born. The only way some of the bootleg alcohol could be consumed was by cutting it with sweet fruit juices and soda. With the quality of liquor now available there has been a turn towards being able to taste the true flavor of a fine spirit. Along with caloric concerns this has increased the demand for higher quality spirits and fewer additives.

Craft Beer Still Booming

Some have worried that the craft brewing market would become oversaturated with so many new companies emerging. However, this has not been the case thus far. In reality, it is the larger brewing companies who 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 very 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 on an item with a very high profit margin. Additionally, wine pairs with nearly every food and can even be used to sell side items like artisanal cheeses, breads and chocolates.

Infused Spirits Offer Variety

There are a plethora of new liquor companies and traditional producers that have adapted to offer sweeter, naturally infused products with an eye on targeting drinkers from novice to connoisseur. A variety of herbs, fruits and extracts that have different flavors, effects and health benefits are being added to traditional spirits such as vodka, rum and gin.

Buy Local

This is a trend that is sweeping across all sections of the food and drink industry. When people go to a bar, restaurant or liquor store they’re looking for and requesting local brands. Being able to identify with the producer kick-starts the nostalgic vibe so closely associated with enjoying a fine beverage. It’s important, particularly for those in the tourist trade, to have a wide variety of local selections.

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.

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