In February, the National Beer Wholesalers Association’s beer purchasers’ index showed an improve in total beer sales year more than year. Segments like sub-premium beers — assume Keystone and Pabst Blue Ribbon — as nicely as seltzers saw upticks. Meanwhile, the craft segment suffered the biggest decline across the board.

“Craft beer on a complete we’ve noticed an eight% reduce [in sales]. But we’ve noticed essentially a 7% improve in import and domestic, so a lot of cost-conscious shoppers are out there,” stated Jason Perkins, owner of Perk’s Beer and Beverage in Scarborough, Maine.

Because opening 4 years ago, Perkins has noticed that beer-only drinkers are far more prepared to broaden their horizons.

“Fifteen years ago, or even likely significantly less than that, it is if you are a beer drinker, you are a beer drinker,” Perkins stated. “And that does not genuinely exist any longer. With the younger folks coming via now, exactly where it is, you know, a common evening could be a beer, seltzer and a cocktail or a beer, seltzer and a glass of wine.”

To listen to Perkins’ story, click the audio player above.

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