Craft Beer Growing Fast in Convenience Channel
BOSTON -- Craft beer is enjoying impressive growth in the convenience store channel. And although that growth is coming off a small base, there is clearly an opportunity for craft beer to gain cooler space.
In a recent report, investment bank UBS examined beer sales at convenience stores from six beer companies, including Boston Beer Co. Analyzing data provided by global retail sales information provider, Nielsen, the report provided a snapshot of the overall state of beer sales in the convenience channel.
"Craft is growing faster in c-stores [of course] on a much lower base," Brager said.
Nielsen statistics are consistent with figures given to Brewbound.com bySymphony IRI. Sales of craft beer in convenience are up 21 percent through the 52-week period ending Jan. 27, 2013, according to the Chicago-based market research firm.