Spending on alcohol jumped in 2021

Last year, Poles spent almost PLN 45 billion on alcohol, an increase of 9.6% compared to 2020, the State Agency for Solving Alcohol Problems reported. The last such large increase in sales took place in 2014, when the market grew by 10%, and in 2015 when 9.6% growth was recorded.

Last year, just like years ago, the increase in expenses is the result of rising prices. However, in 2014 it was the result of an excise tax increase of 15%, while in 2021 it was caused by inflation and an increase in operating costs.

The average price per liter of beer in January 2021 was PLN 5.81, and in December 2021 it was already PLN 6, according to the Association of Brewing Industry Employers. As for vodka, the price exceeded PLN 20 for half a liter, according to spirit companies.