Alcohol sales projected to rise just a bit in 2012
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Bars and restaurants can look forward to slightly higher sales of alcoholic beverages next year, according to a forecast by Technomic Inc.
“While the underlying recovery in bars and restaurants remains fragile, we’re starting to see consumers return to having a drink or two while they’re out,” David Henkes, vice president of Technomic, said in a statement.
The report forecasts that wine sales will have the strongest growth, with a 3.5% increase in 2012. Beer sales are expected to increase 2.2% and spirits 2.3%.
Overall, consumer spending on alcohol at restaurants and bars is projected to increase 2.4% in 2012.
The gains will be largely driven by higher prices, Technomic said, although a couple of categories in the field are predicted to become more popular, including craft beers and premium spirits.
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-- Rosanna Xia
