NEW YORK - U.S. sales of alcoholic beverages rose 55% in the week ending March 21, according to market research firm Nielsen.
Spirits like tequila, gin and pre-mixed cocktails led the way, with sales jumping 75% compared to the same period last year.
Wine sales were up 66% while beer sales rose 42%. And online sales far outpaced in-store sales. Nielsen said online alcohol sales were up 243%.
Danelle Kosmal, a Nielsen vice president, suspects growth rates peaked that week as people loaded up their pantries before state stay-at-home orders went into effect.