Since the last Mintel report on liqueurs in June 2006, in common with some other alcohol sectors, there has been a slowdown with a shift away from on-trade to off-trade consumption. Sales of cream liqueurs, in particular, have fallen in value over the last two years presenting a challenge for suppliers, with cream liqueurs tending to be most popular with core female consumers. In particular, repertoire drinking among younger people is on the increase and there is strong competition, especially in the on-trade, from wine, cider and beer, as well as lighter, mixable spirits.

Since the last Mintel report on liqueurs in June 2006, in common with some other alcohol sectors, there has been a slowdown with a shift away from on-trade to off-trade consumption. Sales of cream liqueurs, in particular, have fallen in value over the last two years presenting a challenge for suppliers, with cream liqueurs tending to be most popular with core female consumers. In particular, repertoire drinking among younger people is on the increase and there is strong competition, especially in the on-trade, from wine, cider and beer, as well as lighter, mixable spirits.

Key themes of the report:

Preventing the continuing decline in consumption.

The potential in ‘mixology’ ie the use of liqueurs in cocktails that could boost both penetration and drinking occasions beyond the traditional festive peak.

How liqueurs can counter the issue of the drinks industry being portrayed in a negative light.

Exploiting the production and provenance values of liqueurs.