Beer, Wine & Liquor Stores Industry Overview

Excerpt from Beer, Wine & Liquor Stores Report

Companies in this industry sell beer, wine, and liquor products from physical retail establishments. No major US companies dominate; individual states have different laws regulating liquor stores, complicating the ability to form national chains.

Competitive Landscape

Personal income, consumer tastes, and entertainment trends drive demand. The profitability of individual companies depends on effective marketing and competitive pricing. Large companies offer wide selections and deep discounts, but small companies compete by offering specialized merchandise, providing superior customer service, or serving a local market. The industry is highly fragmented: the top 50 companies account for 20 percent of sales.

Products, Operations & Technology

Distilled spirits (liquors) account for 40 percent of sales, wine for 30 percent, and beer and ale for 25 percent; other products include groceries, cigarettes, and cigars. The liquor (or hard liquor) category includes gin, vodka, rum, whiskey, brandy, and liqueurs. State laws dictate the type of alcohol sold in a particular venue. In some states, only liquor stores can sell hard liquor.