Top Liquor Store Trends: Statistics And Trends Shaping 2025

According to IBIS World, revenue from beer, wine, and liquor stores in the US has grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.2% over the past five years and is estimated to reach $79.9 billion by the end of 2024.

As consumer behavior shifts and technology continues to transform how people shop, liquor stores are evolving to meet new demands. Staying ahead of these trends can help your business thrive in this competitive market.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 liquor store and alcohol trends for 2024 and how you can leverage them to stay competitive and increase your market share.

Let’s dive in.

The top 10 liquor store trends in 2024

1. Increase of premium spirits

According to Grand View Research, the global premium spirits market size was estimated at $215.47 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2024 to 2030.

This first trend shows that consumers are increasingly willing to spend more on premium and craft spirits in recent years. High-quality vodka and tequila alcohol brands are particularly in demand as customers prioritize top-shelf alcohol consumption.

CNBC stated that, in 2023, U.S. spirits revenue outpaced beer and wine sales for the second year in a row, this time by 0.4% and 26.1%, respectively.

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How to capitalize on this trend:

Consider expanding your inventory to include premium and craft spirits. Use in-store promotions, tastings, or pairing events to introduce customers to higher-end options.

Top vodka brands include:

• Grey Goose

• Belvedere

• Ketel One

Top tequila brands include:

• Don Julio 1942

• Clase Azul

• Adictivo

By curating a selection of these premium spirits, liquor stores not only cater to customer preferences but can possibly increase their margins with higher price points.

2. The rise of ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails

Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails are reshaping the global beverage landscape, becoming one of the fastest-growing categories in recent years. According to IWSR, RTDs was the only major category to record volume growth (+2%) in 2023, alongside a strong +6% uptick in value.

The appeal is clear: consumers love the convenience of enjoying a high-quality cocktail without the hassle of mixing it themselves. As a result, brands are responding with innovative offerings featuring premium ingredients and unique flavors.

One standout in this category is the spiked iced tea segment. Surfside, for example, saw explosive growth in 2023, selling 1.3 million cases—a staggering 563% increase from its debut year, according to Forbes and Sponsor United. Even more impressive, Surfside achieved this while initially being available in only seven states, before expanding into 47 by the end of last year.

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How to capitalize on this trend:

To seize the opportunity, consider dedicating shelf space to a diverse selection of RTD cocktails. Highlight new or limited-edition releases with in-store displays and leverage social media to showcase these products as the ultimate convenient cocktail solution.

Popular hard iced tea RTD brands to consider include

• Surfside

• Sun Cruisers

• High Noon Iced Teas

3. Sustainability and eco-friendly packaging

Sustainability is increasingly top of mind for consumers, especially younger generations. According to the Buying Green Report 2022 by Trivium Communications, 86% of consumers among younger generations (<45) showed a willingness to pay more for sustainable packaging.

In addition, 68% of consumers have chosen a product in the last six months based on its sustainability credentials.

Consumers are becoming more eco-conscious and are seeking out brands that emphasize sustainability. From recyclable packaging to organic ingredients, brands that embrace eco-friendly practices are winning customer loyalty.

How to capitalize on this trend:

Consider stocking your stores with brands that prioritize sustainability. For example, Gray Whale Gin from Golden State Distillery not only uses eco-friendly practices but also contributes 1% of its annual sales to Oceana, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the gray whale species.

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Promote the environmental benefits of your product selection through in-store signage and marketing materials. You might also consider launching a recycling program for bottles and cans, helping your customers make greener choices and enhancing your store’s reputation as an eco-friendly business.

4. Craft and local spirits movement

Similarly, supporting local businesses isn’t just a trend, it’s a top priority for consumers. According to Capital One, American shoppers spent an estimated $3.81 trillion at local stores in 2023, and local retailers retain 289% more revenue for the local economy than chain stores do.

A survey by LendingTree found that 50% of shoppers say they’re willing to spend more to support local businesses. The survey also found that men are more willing than women to support local merchants with 56% versus 44%, respectively. And, the youngest generations are more willing than their older counterparts with 57% of millennials and 56% of Gen Zers, versus 44% of Gen Xers and 42% of baby boomers.

This growing consumer preference for local products greatly applies to the alcoholic beverage industry. Many buyers are seeking out craft distilleries and local producers, drawn to the stories and authenticity behind small-batch production. Whether it's whiskey, gin, or vodka, locally-made spirits offer customers something distinctive and personal, making them willing to pay a premium for these products.

How to capitalize on this trend:

To leverage this movement, build partnerships with local distilleries and prominently feature their products in your store. Consider adding a “shop local” aisle that’s filled with only local distillers, distributors, and brands.

Hosting events like meet-the-maker nights can further engage your customers, giving them a chance to connect with the people behind the spirits. By implementing this experience, you can support local businesses while strengthening your store's connection with customers who value local impact.

5. Online ordering and delivery services

Trend #4 is the consumer preference shift to alcoholic online ordering and delivery services. According to DoorDash’s 2023 Alcohol Online Ordering Trends report, one in ten consumers in the US has ordered alcohol delivery in the past six months. 60% of those surveyed report using on-demand alcohol delivery more than the previous year. 

This trend is set to continue, as Statista forecasts the global alcohol e-commerce market will reach an estimated $67 billion by 2028.

This shift is largely a result of the pandemic, which accelerated consumers’ expectations for convenience. Buyers now want the ability to order alcoholic beverages online, whether for home delivery or curbside pickup, and they expect it to be as seamless as ordering food or groceries.

With e-commerce becoming a key part of the alcohol retail landscape, providing a smooth online experience is now crucial for liquor stores looking to remain competitive.

How to capitalize on this trend:

To take advantage of this growing trend, consider partnering with popular delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Drizly. Alternatively, you could build your own online ordering system to offer a more direct shopping experience. Make sure your website is optimized for ease of use, with intuitive navigation and a streamlined checkout process.

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To boost customer retention, consider implementing digital loyalty programs and offering exclusive online promotions or discounts for repeat customers. By creating a seamless online experience and catering to the convenience-driven consumer, you can position your liquor store for continued growth in the e-commerce space.

For more information on how to set up delivery for your liquor store, check out this article.

6. Non-alcoholic beverages boom

At first glance, non-alcoholic beverages might not seem like a natural fit for liquor stores, but this category is experiencing explosive growth as more consumers embrace a sober-curious lifestyle. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are driving this trend, prioritizing wellness while still enjoying social drinking occasions.

The global non-alcoholic beverages market size reached USD 1,224 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit around USD 2,508.66 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.44% from 2024 to 2033.

Non-alcoholic alternatives to beers, wines, and spirits are now widely available, offering consumers the same great flavors without the alcohol content. Athletic Brewing, a nonalcoholic brewery, generated $90 million in revenue in 2023 and is poised for even more growth in 2024. According to NielsenIQ, the brand holds 19% of the U.S. market share for non-alcoholic beer and is driving 32% of total growth in the category.

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The popularity of these no-alcohol products highlights a broader consumer desire for moderation and balance without compromising taste or social experiences.

How to capitalize on this trend:

To tap into the booming non-alcoholic beverage market, start by curating a well-rounded selection of non-alcoholic beers, wines, and spirits. Consider promoting these offerings as part of a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle. You could also host tastings or provide non-alcoholic cocktail recipes to engage customers and showcase the versatility of these products.

With more consumers seeking out alcohol-free alternatives, offering a variety of high-quality, flavorful options will not only meet demand but can also open up new revenue streams for your store.

7. Bottled mixers are on the rise

Bottled mixers are quickly becoming a staple for consumers who enjoy the convenience of making cocktails at home, but aren’t looking for a canned option. The global mixers market was worth $9.1 billion in 2022 and is predicted to reach $17 billion by 2030.

This trend is particularly appealing to younger consumers, who are drawn to bold, unique flavors. Flavored mixers that only require alcohol to be added are growing in popularity, driven by the rise of home mixology and the desire for bar-quality drinks at home.

Brands like Stonewall Kitchen are capitalizing on this trend with innovative offerings like Sea Salt Espresso Martini Mixer, Sangria Mixer, and Blueberry Lemon Mint Mixer, giving customers the opportunity to experiment with different flavors and create fun cocktails with minimal prep.

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How to capitalize on this trend:

To take advantage of the growing demand for mixers, create themed sections in your store that pair fun spirits with a variety of cocktail mixers. You could also partner with local bartenders or mixologists to host in-store or virtual cocktail-making classes, giving customers an interactive way to discover new products and techniques.

Sharing cocktail recipes on your social media is another great way to inspire customers to try unique flavor combinations. By offering creative, ready-to-mix options, you can cater to the home bar enthusiast and drive additional sales.

8. Health-conscious drinking

The alcohol market is evolving to cater to health-conscious consumers who want to enjoy a drink without sacrificing their wellness goals. According to a GlobalData Global Consumer Survey, 46% of consumers are influenced by how a product will impact their health when shopping for alcoholic drinks.

The wellness movement is driving a shift toward "better-for-you" drinks, with increasing demand for options like lower-calorie, lower-alcohol, and low-sugar beverages. Hard seltzers, low-sugar wines, and other health-forward drinks have become staples, offering consumers a way to indulge a little more mindfully.

For example, there are now several brands of different hard Kombucha, a boozy fermented tea that blends alcohol with probiotics and other functional ingredients. The global hard kombucha market size was valued at $40.1 million in 2021 and is projected to reach $262.78 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 23.23% from 2022 to 2030. Brands are capitalizing on this niche with innovative flavors and wellness benefits that appeal to health-conscious drinkers.

Check out Liquor.com’s list of the top 8 hard Kombuchas here.

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How to capitalize on this trend:

To attract health-focused consumers, consider expanding your inventory of "better-for-you" alcoholic products, including hard seltzers, low-calorie beers, organic wines, and hard kombuchas. Use social media to promote these items as healthier alternatives for customers who want to enjoy a drink while maintaining their wellness goals. This is especially a great marketing tactic at the beginning of each new year as consumers prioritize their health.

You can also highlight specific product features such as low sugar content, organic ingredients, or probiotic benefits to help guide customers toward options that fit their lifestyle. By positioning your store as a go-to destination for health-conscious drinking, you can cater to a growing segment of consumers.

9. AI and data-driven inventory management

The integration of AI and advanced technology is transforming the liquor store industry in 2024, streamlining operations and enhancing the customer experience. Shoppers under 45 are more likely than older consumers to trust AI and to want to use the technology to engage with retailers, according to Dunnhumby’s Consumer Trends Tracker. As this tech-savvy generation gains purchasing power, AI is becoming a critical tool for liquor store owners looking to stay competitive.

AI technology can do more than just improve the shopping experience, it can also optimize inventory management. With AI-powered systems, stores can analyze purchasing trends, predict consumer behavior, and reduce stock issues. By harnessing data-driven insights, liquor stores can better anticipate what products will be in demand and ensure they’re available when customers want them.

For example, Advanced Liquor Store Software by LEAFIO AI allows liquor retailers to easily manage stocks, promotions, assortment, and display of any category of alcoholic beverages.

How to capitalize on this trend:

To leverage the power of AI in your liquor store, consider investing in AI-driven inventory management systems. By automating and optimizing your inventory, you can streamline operations and reduce the risk of over-ordering or under-stocking key products.

Aside from AI, technology remains an essential “trend” in the liquor store industry as investing in a top-notch POS system is essential. Check out this article on The Best Liquor Store POS Systems In 2024 to learn more.

10. Cannabis-infused beverages

You might have heard of Loverboy alcoholic seltzers but have you heard of Hi-Boys? The global cannabis beverages market size was $2.04 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from $3.09 billion in 2024 to $117.05 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 57.50% during 2024-2032.

As cannabis legalization spreads across various regions, cannabis-infused drinks are emerging as a distinctive product category. These beverages offer consumers a non-alcoholic experience that can appeal to both recreational users and those focused on wellness. With their potential benefits, cannabis-infused beverages are capturing the interest of a growing demographic seeking alternatives to traditional alcohol.

For example, CANN sells award-winning flavored THC-infused seltzers such as their Blood Orange Cardamom Hi-Boy. This beverage contains 5MG of THC and 10MG of CBD.

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To learn about other canned cannabis-infused options check out this article.

How to capitalize on this trend:

To capitalize on the growing interest in cannabis-infused beverages, it’s essential to stay informed about cannabis regulations in your area. If local laws permit, consider exploring opportunities to stock these beverages and expand your product offering to meet the needs of consumers interested in cannabis alternatives.

Additionally, take the time to educate your customers about these products and their benefits. Use in-store signage, tastings, or social media campaigns to market cannabis-infused drinks as a trendy alternative to traditional alcohol. By positioning your store as a source of innovative and varied beverage options, you can attract a new segment of customers eager to explore the world of cannabis-infused beverages.

Implement these industry trends today

By staying ahead of these trends, liquor stores can enhance their offerings and ensure they remain competitive in a fast-evolving market. Whether it's embracing premium products, leveraging technology, or capitalizing on the shift toward sustainability, there's a wealth of opportunity in 2024 for those who adapt.

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