Spirit Sales Top Beer for the First Time Ever

Consumers have changed their preferences when it comes to alcoholic beverages and spirit sales have trumped beer for the first time ever.

According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, spirits revenue market share has nearly doubled since 2000. Spirits reached 42.1% market share in 2022 while beer holds 41.9%.

So, what is driving up the sales of spirits? Check out some of these trends that industry leaders shared with CNBC:

Celebrity brand deals

Celebrities ranging from movie stars to athletes, musicians and models have all tested out the spirit business. High profile individuals already have a platform so many of them saw great success by joining the liquor industry including Kendall Jenner, Ryan Reynolds and Michael Jordan,

Consumers want a story

Companies have began to highlight their “efforts in sustainability, contributions to local communities and commitments to diversity,” per CNBC, and consumers like it. Consumers have reportedly been interested in feeling connected to the companies they are purchasing from and the trend is expected to continue.

Ready-to-drink cocktails

Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails have become a trend for consumers ever since the pandemic when people began to drink more at home. They are convenient, portable and unique. Pre-mixed and ready-to-drink cocktail sales grew 35.8% last year and reached $2.2 billion in sales.