News

Royal Jubilee grows gin and sparkling sales

Sales of gin and sparkling wine benefited from the Royal Jubilee celebrations more than any other alcohol category, according to the latest WSTA Market Report. Sales of gin and sparkling wine increased by 2% and 5% in the off trade, as total alcohol sales declined by 1%.

Against a backdrop of declining sales, Champagne also enjoyed a celebratory summer with on trade sales increasing by 10% in the last twelve weeks.
The WSTA Market Report draws on data and analysis from Nielsen (off trade data to end July 2012), CGA Strategy (on trade data to 7 July 2012) and the Wilson Drinks Report.

The detailed data reveals that:
• Sales of gin increased by 2% in volume and 8% in value in the off trade in the twelve months to July 2012
• Off trade sales of sparkling wine increased by 5% in the last year and 12% in the last twelve weeks
• In the last year, alcohol sales decreased by 1% in shops and 3% in bars and restaurants
• Sales of Champagne increased by 10% in bars and restaurants in the last twelve weeks
• Sales of wines over £5 now represent over 33% of total wine sold in volume in the off trade.

Commenting on the latest market report WSTA CEO Miles Beale said: “The mood of the nation has been very positive over the summer thanks to the Royal Jubilee and the build-up to the Olympics, so it’s perhaps not surprising to see an increase in sales of those products associated with celebration.

“Even though overall alcohol sales are declining, some categories are showing encouraging signs of recovery which is good news for the trade.”