Despite a weakened economy, Ohioans spent nearly $735 million on spirituous liquors in 2009, but many locals chose better quality drinks in keeping with the statewide trend.
People are more conscious of how they spend their money. Going for quality over quantity
said Brad Clark, brewmaster at Jackie O's Pub and Brewery, 24 W. Union St.
Ohioans made 2009 a record-setting year for alcohol sales by spending $734.8 million on booze, up nearly $16 million from last year, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control.
The increase meets with the trend of steadily rising sales since 1998, said Matt Mullins, spokesman for the division.
The spike is mainly attributed to higher product prices, customers buying more expensive products and an increase in consumption, Mullins added.
Some local bars are also experiencing increases in premium alcohol sales.
The craft and premium sector of alcohol sales has been growing significantly for the past five years at Jackie O's, Clark said.
Wine sales have also been up since about 2000, and craft distilling is experiencing a boom right now, Clark added.
Kari Smith, a manager at The Union Bar and Grill, 18 W. Union St., also said she has seen an increase in alcohol sales over last year.
It's interesting because we've seen an increase in prices from distributors and that makes bars have to raise their prices she said.
We've focused more on carry craft beers which have been selling well. They tend to be a little more expensive
but it's a better quality beer
Smith added.
Local bars that sell craft beers include Jackie O's, The Union, Tony's Tavern, 7 W. State St., Casa Nueva Restaurant and Cantina, 6 W. State St. and The Oak Room Bar & Grill, 14 Station St.
Brian Conkey, a manager at The Oak Room Bar & Grill, said his sales have remained the same as in past years.
We decide what to stock mostly by what people ask for and what sells the best
he added.
A representative from Lucky Dog Carry-Out & Liquor, 309 W. Union St., said, Sales are obviously up
but did not have any further comment.
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Elizabeth Lundblad
