Ohio Liquor Sales Broke Another Record in 2011

The Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Control announced that dollar sales of spirituous liquor reached a record level in 2011, totaling $793.7 million.  This was an increase of 5.3%, exceeding last year’s total by $40 million.

“Better inventory management and improved customer service helps us meet the needs of consumers,” said David Goodman, Director of the Ohio Department of Commerce.

After a slump in which wholesale dollar sales (liquor purchased by retail permit holders such as restaurants, bars and clubs) decreased three of the past four years, 2011 experienced a 4.7% increase. Total wholesale sales reached $244 million, exceeding last year by $10.9 million.

“This is a positive indicator for Ohio’s economy, showing that Ohioans are again patronizing restaurants and entertainment businesses,” Goodman said.

The Ohio Restaurant Association is also noticing the growth. “Whether linked to expanded happy hour offerings or a larger selection of flavored spirits, consumers appear to be enjoying more specialty drinks and pairing their meals with more sophisticated products,” said Jarrod Clabaugh, Director of Communications for the Ohio Restaurant Association.

Dollar sales grew more than consumption in 2011. The Division sold a total of 11.4 million gallons of spirituous liquor through its 457 Contract Liquor Agencies, an increase of 3.9% over the previous year.

“As consumer tastes become increasingly more sophisticated, they tend to buy more of the premium products,” said Goodman.

The following were the top 10 selling brands of spirituous liquor in Ohio for 2011 (by gallons sold):

1. Kamchatka Vodka – 401,148 gallons
2. Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey – 349,589 gallons
3. Bacardi Superior Light Rum – 291,559 gallons
4. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum – 284,606 gallons
5. Absolut Vodka – 274,549 gallons
6. Smirnoff  Vodka  – 271,679 gallons
7. Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey – 271,497 gallons
8. Jagermeister – 257,774 gallons
9. Korski Vodka – 231,916 gallons
10. Black Velvet Canadian Whiskey – 192,244 gallons

Spirituous liquor is intoxicating liquor containing more than 21% alcohol by volume.