Alcohol Sales Steady Despite Downward Economy

By Connie LeGrand
Anchor
Published: July 4, 2008

While sales are down in many industries, there is one that is being called relatively recession proof - alcohol sales. Despite a sluggish economy, sales are steady.  A recent study by the Nielsen Company found that more than 80 percent of consumers say they are spending the same amount or more on beer, wine and spirits compared to a year ago.
Here in the Upstate, employees at Tony’s Liquor Store say locations say sales at his three locations are actually up, even though many of the regulars aren’t buying top shelf anymore.
“Well, people get depressed… They’re not working. They have more time to be at home to drink; they are not going out to drink as much.  There is probably a hundred reasons why they would be up,” says clerk Betty King.
Family counselor Dr. Roger Rhoades says people know they can’t control the economy, and many turn to alcohol to self-medicate, during difficult times.  According to Rhoades, “It’s a very severe time for so many people, because they’re at a loss, they’re up against the wall.  They don’t know what to do, because they don’t have the money, they don’t have the opportunities they used to.  They are not seeing the future as they used to see it, and so what can I do to deal with it?” If you think you might have a problem with alcohol… And you can’t afford counseling or treatment, Rhoades says there are resources available to you.  He says the Internet provides a way to communicate with other people to people in similar situations and seeks advice.  He suggests you let friends know that you welcome their support.  He says churches can provide assistance.
Even if you don’t join, he says most are willing to reach out and help you, and they have the resources to do so.

Nielsen: Declining Economy Has Little Impact On Consumers’ Alcoholic Beverage Purchases In Stores:  http://www.nielsen.com/media/2008/pr_080603a.html

The P.A.C.E. Center of Mental Health America/Piedmont & Carolina Counseling, Inc.: http://www.mhapiedmont.org/