Austin Alcohol Sales

Top Performers in Austin's Alcohol Scene

In May 2025, the JW Marriott Austin takes the lead as the top alcohol-selling establishment with total receipts of $1,487,148. The hotel’s impressive liquor sales of $1,015,634 dominate their alcohol revenue, complemented by significant wine and beer sales. This makes JW Marriott a powerhouse in Austin's nightlife.

Ojos Locos Sports Cantina follows closely, generating $1,348,115 in total receipts. While liquor sales are robust, what stands out is their beer sales, which account for a whopping $894,067. This suggests a strong beer culture among patrons, likely driven by their sports bar atmosphere.

Key Trends and Insights

Levy at Austin FC boasts the third-highest sales, with beer leading at $849,778. This indicates that sporting venues are major players in beer consumption, possibly due to high foot traffic and enthusiastic fans. Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa and ABA Austin also feature in the top five, with strong liquor sales driving their success.

Interestingly, Proper Hotel and Moody Center at the University of Texas showcase a balanced approach, excelling in liquor sales while maintaining notable wine and beer receipts. This balance could appeal to a diverse clientele seeking varied beverage options.

Noteworthy Mentions

Matt's El Rancho, Inc. stands out for its liquor sales, which make up the majority of its $834,423 total. Meanwhile, De Nada Cantina is another establishment where liquor sales dominate the revenue, hinting at a cocktail-focused offering that resonates with patrons.

On the other hand, beer-centric venues like Premier Hospitality at Mike A Myers Stadium and Buford's highlight how certain locations thrive on specific beverages, catering to niche markets effectively. This specialization may be a strategic advantage in Austin's vibrant alcohol scene.

Top Areas for Alcohol Sales

The heart of Austin, zip code 78701, takes the crown with a whopping $33,514,012 in total sales, accounting for a significant portion of the city's alcohol revenue. This area boasts the highest number of establishments at 278, making it a bustling hub for nightlife and social gatherings. Following 78701, zip codes 78704 and 78702 also show strong sales figures of $11,830,194 and $11,498,859 respectively, thanks to their vibrant communities and popular local bars and restaurants.

Alcohol Preference by Zip Code

Across Austin, liquor dominates the sales mix in most areas, with percentages often exceeding 50%. Notably, 78702 shows a preference for liquor at 71%, while 78730 has the highest concentration at 75%. Wine sales peak in zip code 78731, where wine accounts for 33% of alcohol sales. In contrast, beer is favored more in areas like 78752, where it represents 50% of sales, showcasing varied tastes across the city.

Opportunities for New Establishments

With a total of 1,392 establishments spread across 43 zip codes, certain areas like 78712, with only 5 establishments but nearly $1.9 million in sales, present opportunities for new businesses. Similarly, 78735 and 78719, each with relatively few establishments but over $2 million in sales, could benefit from additional venues to meet demand.

Interesting Patterns and Insights

It's clear that zip code 78701 is the epicenter of alcohol sales, driven by its dense concentration of establishments and the high liquor preference. Meanwhile, areas like 78703 and 78746 show a higher inclination towards wine, suggesting a potential market for upscale wine bars. Conversely, the lower sales and establishment numbers in zip codes such as 78742 and 78713 indicate minimal competition, yet the potential for growth remains modest given their current sales figures.

Overview of Alcohol Sales in Austin

Over the past 12 months, Austin's alcohol sales have shown some interesting trends and fluctuations. The most significant peak occurred in October 2024, with total receipts soaring to $119.6 million, largely driven by a spike in beer sales. This peak was followed by a notable decline in November and December, with receipts dropping to $98.7 million and $93.6 million respectively, which aligns with typical holiday season consumption patterns.

Seasonal Patterns and Fluctuations

The data reveals a cyclical nature in sales, with a significant boost in the fall, particularly October, and a gradual decline into the winter months. Interestingly, January 2025 marked a low point with receipts at $75.3 million, which is consistent with post-holiday spending slowdowns. However, sales bounced back significantly in March with a 27.6% increase, indicating a potential surge in social activities and events during spring.

Changes in Sales Mix

The sales mix has also shifted notably over the year. Liquor consistently holds the largest share of sales, peaking at $72 million in October. Beer sales saw a remarkable increase in October as well, reaching $31.5 million, which suggests a seasonal preference perhaps linked to sporting events or festivals. Wine sales, while the smallest segment, remained relatively stable, indicating a steady consumer base.

Market Implications

For businesses, these trends suggest several strategies. Capitalizing on the peak sales period in October could be crucial, perhaps by aligning marketing efforts or inventory increases with this period. Additionally, the significant rebound in spring suggests opportunities for promotions tied to events or the warmer weather. The consistent demand for liquor across the year also presents a stable investment opportunity for businesses focusing on this segment.

Year-Over-Year Comparisons

Comparing year-over-year data, the October peak in 2024 was a standout, with a 31.38% increase in total receipts from the previous month. This surge underscores the impact of seasonal events and consumer behavior changes, presenting a blueprint for anticipating future peaks and valleys in sales. Overall, the data indicates a robust market that, despite seasonal dips, presents consistent opportunities for growth and engagement.