July 2, 2026

Happy Independence Day!

In observance of the holiday, our newsletter will not be published tomorrow, July 3rd. We will return to your inbox with the latest industry news on Monday, July 6th.

Cheers,

Park Street University

Vodka Forecast to Beat the Broader U.S. Spirits Market

Vodka is expected to outpace the total U.S. core spirits market over the next 12 months, according to a new SipSource forecast from WSWA. Even as the category faces mounting competition from agave spirits, whiskey, and a fast-growing RTD segment, its trajectory is projected to beat the broader market, which saw depletions fall 4.19 percent for the 12 months ending March 2026.

The forecast points to gradual stabilization across the board, with core spirits declines easing to 3.7% by Q2 2027. Agave spirits are expected to steady on mid-tier strength. Rum, Irish whiskey, and Cognac are set to lag, and Scotch and American whiskey should improve into 2027, led by affordable luxury price tiers.

WSWA CEO Francis Creighton said conditions may finally begin to stabilize over the coming year, reinforcing the importance of disciplined planning and meeting consumers where they are.

Alcohol Beverages, Products & Brands Launched in June
Source: Park Street | 🔗 Read 

Kroger Buying Regional Grocer Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion

Source: AP | 🔗 Read | ▶️ Watch

On-Premise Outperforms Off for Wine, Spirits

Source: Kane's Beverage News Daily | 🔗 Read | ▶️ Watch

Retailers Ramp Up Patriotic Displays

Source: Market Watch | 🔗 Read | ▶️ Watch

Buffalo Trace reveals third Prohibition Collection

Source: The Spirits Business | 🔗 Read

George Washington’s Mount Vernon to Release Spirit of ’76 Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey

Source: Fred Minnick | 🔗 Read

How These 4 Gin Brands Entered the U.S. Market

Source: Park Street | 🔗 Read

The Hottest Gen Z Alcohol Trend Isn't a New Cocktail — It's Drinking Earlier

Source: Food & Wine | 🔗 Read | ▶️ Watch

Distribution Advice From Skurnik, T. Edward, Allied Beverage, and Revival Spirits

Source: Park Street | 🎧 Listen

The U.S. State That Spends the Most on Alcohol Isn't New York or California

Source: Chowhound | 🔗 Read

Wine sells 660 basis points better in bars and restaurants than in retail, proof that consumers are still spending on experiences, per WSWA SipSource. 

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