On-Premise Positive in Countdown to Holidays

The outlook for the final quarter of 2023 is positive, with frequency of visits to On Premise venues remaining consistent across the past six months, according to the latest US On Premise Impact Report from CGA by NIQ.

This includes four in five consumers visiting three or more times during the past three months. In the shorter term, three in five consumers have visited the On Premise during the past week, and likewise, a similar proportion intend to visit again in the week ahead.

Additionally, 3 in 10 are gearing up to eat, drink and be scary in venues for Halloween, with younger consumers particularly keen to carve out some fright night fun.  

Looking ahead to remaining occasions in 2023, On Premise visitation levels look set to continue satisfactory overall. Over half of consumers are very likely or likely to visit the On Premise to celebrate Thanksgiving, while 56% plan to indulge in the holiday spirit both before and after Christmas Day, and 41% plan to see in the New Year in bars, clubs and restaurants. This is particularly popular with those aged under 35.

 So, what are consumers drinking as fall transitions to winter?

While most spirit and cocktail drinkers are consuming specific categories as often or more often than they did six months ago, there are notable proportions (around 3 in 10) who have cut down on their consumption levels.

Typically, consumers are more receptive to cocktails than spirit and mixer drinks, although the motivations to pick one over the other are often similar. For example, wanting a treat and Happy Hour or other deals and offers are primary reasons for consumers to choose both drink types. In contrast, buying motivators sometimes vary between visitors to venues in city centers as opposed to suburban areas.

Matthew Crompton, Regional Director – Americas said: “With the raft of annual celebrations during the final quarter, it’s always a key trading period that can literally be make or break. So, it’s business critical for drinks brands and operators to know their customers and pre-empt changing preferences as the seasons shift.

"For these purposes, we’ll continue to track and monitor key dates as they approach and explore the specific occasions in greater detail. And with 2024 planning in full swing, there’s everything to play for, to not only deliver outstanding results this season, but to also carry a bit of seasonal sparkle into the new year too.”