WSWA Weighs In On Holiday Trends, Spirits Growth In C-Stores

According to new data from the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America’s SipSource, 42% of consumers are planning to spend less on alcohol this holiday season, and nearly half say they’ll spend the same amount, with only 12% of respondents planning to spend more.

While challenging economic conditions may dampen sales, SipSource’s data indicates that consumers will continue to reach for more premium bottles. In years past, spirits over $25 and wines over $15 a bottle generally see a 3% boost for the three months ending in December compared to the three months ending in September.

Beyond the holiday forecast, SipSource highlighted the ongoing success of spirits in convenience channels, which have seen a 7% bump year-to-date through August, compared to a 6% decline for spirits in the off-premise overall. Wine, too, has seen a bump in convenience chains, rising 0.4% compared to an overall 8.4% decline elsewhere. Across the overall wine market, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and white blends are all outperforming the category.—Shane English

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