Summer is just around the corner, which means longer days, barbecues, beach trips, and, of course, refreshing drinks to match the season. For liquor store owners, summer presents a golden opportunity to meet the increase in demand for seasonal favorites. But the key to maximizing sales isn’t just stocking up on anything and everything. It’s about understanding customer preferences, anticipating trends, and curating the perfect selection that screams summer.
Light Beers And Craft Brews
Summer and beer go hand in hand, and light beers often dominate sales during this time of year. Customers love lager and session ales for their light, crisp flavors that pair perfectly with sunny afternoons. Highlight local breweries to attract the “drink local” crowd. Many customers love supporting small businesses and experimenting with unique, small-batch brews.
Rosé Wine And Fresh Whites
Rosé has become synonymous with summer, earning its spot as a millennial darling. Its light, fruity notes make it a go-to for picnics, brunches, and happy hours. White wines, specifically Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio, are also summer staples for their refreshing qualities.
Tequila And Mezcal
The growing popularity of margaritas and Palomas has made tequila a summer essential. Mezcal, with its smoky flavor profile, is quickly gaining traction as well. Place cocktail recipe cards near the tequila section to inspire customers and increase cross-sell opportunities (like lime juice, mixers, or rim salt).
Seltzers And Ready-To-Drink Cocktails
Nothing captures the convenience-loving summer vibe quite like ready-to-drink products. Hard seltzers and canned cocktails are quick, easy to transport, and can go anywhere your customers go, from park picnics to beach parties. Look for seltzers or RTDs with premium ingredients, unique flavors, or collaborations with influencers and mixologists.
Spirits For Summer Cocktails
Spirits like vodka, rum, and gin are staples for countless iconic summer cocktails. Whether it’s a mojito or a gin fizz, your customers rely on these spirits to craft their summer drinks. Don’t forget mixers. Keep shelves stocked with tonic water, soda, lemonade, and syrups.
Frozen Drink Mixes And Accessories
During the summer heat, frozen margaritas, daiquiris, and slushes become highly popular. Offering the right drink mixes and accessories can position your store as a one-stop shop for summer fun.
Merchandising Tips For Maximum Impact
The way you display products can greatly influence buying decisions. Consider these tips:
Create Seasonal Displays: Showcase your best summer items together. For example, feature tequila, margarita mix, and salt near limes and citrus juicers for an inspiring cocktail display.
Bundle Deals: Offer discounts on bundles, such as “Buy a bottle of rosé and get 20% off a wine cooler.”
Highlight New Arrivals: Place trending or new products at the front of the store to catch customers’ attention.
Make it Instagram-Friendly: Bright, summery displays with signs or props can attract customers who want to snap and share photos for social media.
Build Community
Summer is the perfect time to foster a sense of connection with your customers. Host events or tastings featuring seasonal drinks. An “Introduction to Summer Wines” tasting or a cocktail-making class can draw crowds and build loyalty.
Since 2005, Quikstone Capital Solutions has been a trusted advisor to thousands of merchants. Quikstone provides these merchants with easy, fast, and flexible working capital for all their business needs. If you need cash for your business, contact us today. We have only one goal: to help your business succeed.
Download our liquor store guide for additional tips on growing your business!
