Beer sales are up. What can that inform us about the economy?

In February, the National Beer Wholesalers Association’s beer purchasers’ index showed an improve in total beer sales year more than year. Segments like sub-premium beers — assume Keystone and Pabst Blue Ribbon — as nicely as seltzers saw upticks. Meanwhile, the craft segment suffered the biggest decline across the board.

“Craft beer on a complete we’ve noticed an eight% reduce [in sales]. But we’ve noticed truly a 7% improve in import and domestic, so a lot of value-conscious shoppers are out there,” mentioned Jason Perkins, owner of Perk’s Beer and Beverage in Scarborough, Maine.

Considering the fact that opening 4 years ago, Perkins has noticed that beer-only drinkers are much more prepared to broaden their horizons.

“Fifteen years ago, or even possibly much less than that, it is if you are a beer drinker, you are a beer drinker,” Perkins mentioned. “And that does not genuinely exist any longer. With the younger persons coming via now, exactly where it is, you know, a common evening could be a beer, seltzer and a cocktail or a beer, seltzer and a glass of wine.”

To listen to Perkins’ story, click the audio player above.

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