Distilleries Industry Overview

Excerpt from Distilleries Report

Companies in this industry distill, blend, or mix liquors. Major companies include Brown-Forman (US), Diageo (UK), Kweichow Moutai (China), and Pernod-Richard (France).

Competitive Landscape

Demand is driven primarily by trends in alcohol consumption and personal income. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations and strong distribution channels. Large companies have advantages in brand recognition and economies of scale. Small operations can compete effectively by specializing in high-end or unusual spirits. The US industry is highly concentrated: the top 20 companies account for over 90 percent of industry revenue.

Products, Operations & Technology

Major products include whiskey and bourbon (10 percent of industry revenues); cordials and liqueurs (10 percent); and gin (5 percent). Other products include unflavored (neutral) spirits, such as vodka; unclassified or specialty liquors; bottled cocktails; and distillers dried grains for animal feed.