Alcohol spending to soar in five years

From: AAP
November 07, 2011 9:49AM

AUSTRALIANS will fork out almost $30 billion for booze in 2016/17, with the amount people spend on alcohol expected to jump 15 per cent over the next five years, new research shows.

Traditional lagers are losing popularity to cider and premium imported low-carb beer, according to a report by IbisWorld.
Australians will spend $25.4 billion in 2011/12, with $9.04 billion being outlaid in pubs and bars and $16.4 billion in bottle shops.
Spending is set to rise 15 per cent in the next five years, reaching $29.3 billion in 2016/17.
“Australia has overtaken the UK in terms of alcohol consumption, yet Australians are increasingly aware of the dangers of binge drinking,” IbisWorld general manager (Australia) Karen Dobie said today.

“The rising popularity of low and mid-strength beer and wine indicates the industry will not be heavily affected by more sensible drinking patterns.”
Beer accounted for 44 per cent of total alcohol consumption, falling from 76 per cent in the 1960s.
“Traditional full-strength lagers such as VB, Carlton and Tooheys are losing market share in favour of cider and premium, imported, low-carbohydrate and craft beer segments,” Ms Dobie said.

“Craft beers have grown in popularity and there are now close to 120 micro-breweries in Australia.”
Wine accounted for 37 per cent of alcohol consumption and spirits for 19 per cent