In 2011, beer’s performance reflected a category of contradictions with trends torn between the ongoing price consciousness of some consumers and the insatiable taste for variety — even if it carries a higher price — from other demographics.
Still cautious from the economic downturn, consumers created an uneven environment for beer once again in 2011. The year’s performance reflected a category of contradictions with trends torn between the ongoing price consciousness of some shoppers and the insatiable taste for variety — even if it carries a higher price — from other demographics.
Crown Imports’ portfolio of eight brands captures approximately 42 percent of the volume of the import beer market in the United States, a figure that the Chicago-based company is intent on increasing. In fact, the joint venture between Mexico’s Grupo Modelo, S.A. de C.V. and Constellation Brands Inc., Victor, N.Y., has a goal of becoming the third major U.S. beer company occupying 20 percent per dollar market share.
Modelo Especial, an import beer brand by Crown Imports LLC, Chicago, in collaboration with Sports Illustrated and international soccer player Clint Dempsey, last month invited fans to enter Modelo Especial’s VIP Soccer Sweepstakes. The contest awarded five grand prize winners a trip for two to attend an international soccer match of their choice.
Beverage Industry’s Wholesaler of the Year Ben E. Keith Co. Beverage Distributors will sell more than 39 million cases of Anheuser-Busch InBev and assorted craft and import beers this year.