Interview, Part 1: David Jabour, Twin Liquors Co-owner And President

With roots that date back 86 years, Austin, Texas-based Twin Liquors has emerged as the second-largest liquor store chain in the Lone Star state. The company now operates 103 stores, with locations beyond the Austin metro area in markets including Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, College Station, and the Texas Hill Country. Third-generation siblings and co-owners David Jabour and Margaret Jabour manage the business. SND contributing editor Terri Allan spoke to David Jabour recently about wine and spirits trends at the stores and the impact of declining consumer confidence in his marketplace.

SND: How’s business been so far this year for Twin Liquors and how are you expecting to finish out 2023?

Jabour: Given where consumer sentiment is, business has been okay and we’re seeing modest growth. Consumer confidence, inflation, discretionary dollars, and demographics play a key role in projecting out our business trends, and we’re finding that consumer confidence has been waning in recent months. We expect the consumer will remain cautious through the end of the year, with our results likely to be flat.

SND: How will you and the Twin Liquors team work to minimize impact to your business as a result of reduced consumer sentiment?

Jabour: As retailers we have to inject confidence in the consumer. That’s where people and classic retail come into play—making connections with our customers, whether it’s in-store or online. It’s not about discounting. We need to uplift consumers’ spirits if they’re not feeling too good about things when they come in to purchase a bottle of wine or spirits.

SND: What are the overriding trends for spirits this year at Twin Liquors?

Jabour: Weather always has an impact on what the consumer is looking for, and we’ve had a very hot year in Texas. So, Tequila—which has always been strong in Texas—is exceptionally strong this year as it’s very friendly to hot Texas weather. Consumers continue to be intrigued with the different ways to consume Tequila. And while they’re being more timid with dollars this year compared with previous years, premiumization continues. 100% blue agave Tequila continues to grow. Mezcal also continues to grow on a small base as consumers like to experiment with its different flavor profiles.

SND: Is that premiumization trend playing out for other spirits categories as well?

Jabour: Premiumization continues to be the case for Bourbon. Consumers today are looking for authenticity in Bourbon and whisk(e)y. There’s been a proliferation of brands within the whisk(e)y category, but the fundamentals are that consumers want authenticity and the story behind the brand.

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