National Beer Wholesalers Association‘s Beer Purchasers Index continued pretty much where it has been, with the “total beer” category reading at 53 and the “at-risk” inventory category at 46.
“There is nothing particularly exciting in these results, which may be a good sign as it points to the industry settling down from the supply and demand shocks over the past 24 months,” NBWA said, adding:
“These results also show a steady improvement over the first quarter, with both April and May reporting a slightly higher ordering index along with a slightly lower “at-risk” index. Slightly higher ordering indices, combined with leaner inventory indices are good signals for June and the start of the summer beer selling season.”
- The imports index continues to be in expansion territory with a reading of 71 in May 2022, slightly higher than the May 2021 reading of 68.
- The craft index is at 37, which is well below the May 2021 reading of 65.
- The premium lights index posted a reading of 48, which is well below the May 2021 reading of 64, but in line with recent historical trends.
- The premium regular index is at 37, well below the May 2021 reading of 48, returning to its long run averages.
- The below premium index is at 40, slightly below the May 2021 reading of 36.
- The FMB/seltzer index took another big hit, falling to 37 in May 2022 from the May 2021 reading of 82.
- Finally, the cider index remains below 50, with a reading of 31 compared to the May 2021 reading of 46.