Michigan Liquor Sales Reach $1.9 Billion in 2024

News Summary

Michigan’s liquor sales surpassed $1.9 billion in 2024, with approximately $1.895 billion spent on wholesale distilled spirits. The stability in spending reflects a thriving liquor market across Michigan, with Wayne County the highest spender at over $440 million. Total Wine in Novi emerged as the largest individual purchaser, while the MLCC’s report highlights the economic impact of liquor sales and consumer demand stability in the state.

Detroit, Michigan – In a notable development for the state’s economy, Michigan’s liquor sales surpassed $1.9 billion in 2024, with approximately $1.895 billion spent on wholesale distilled spirits following refunds calculated at over $8 million. This figure represents a consistent level of spending compared to recent years, indicating stability in the market since 2020.

Over 12,000 businesses across Michigan participated in purchasing distilled spirits from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC), which regulates the sale of liquor in the state. The substantial sales figures highlight a thriving alcohol retail sector, with Wayne County leading the way as the highest spender, amounting to more than $440 million in purchases.

Notably, Total Wine located in Novi emerged as the largest individual purchaser of liquor, boasting wholesale purchases amounting to $12,446,447. Other significant contributors to the liquor market included well-known retailers such as Costco and Meijer, along with specialized alcohol superstores. In terms of sales generated, Little Caesars Arena was the top site, ringing up $1.03 million in liquor sales.

Following Wayne County, Oakland County ranked second in liquor purchases, spending over $272 million. This figure is notably less than Wayne County’s totals, illustrating a stark contrast in liquor consumption patterns amongst neighboring counties. Muskegon County witnessed its top bars purchasing a total of $916,212, a slight decline compared to previous years. The Deck, a popular venue, led local sales with $138,384.

Per Capita Spending Highlights

On a per capita basis, Mackinac and Emmet counties recorded the highest liquor spending, each surpassing $400 per resident. These elevated figures can be attributed to both a limited local population and a substantial influx of tourists. Conversely, Gratiot, Tuscola, and Menominee counties were reported as the only counties with spending below $100 per resident.

Context of Liquor Regulation in Michigan

Michigan operates as a control state, meaning that the sale of distilled spirits is strictly regulated through the MLCC. This regulatory framework ensures that retailers can only source their liquor through commission-sanctioned channels. The consistency in spending on liquor aligns with broader consumption trends that have remained stable across the state over the past few years.

The MLCC’s 2024 financial report underscores the vital role of local businesses in contributing to Michigan’s economy through substantial liquor sales. The interactive map provided by the MLCC offers an insightful resource that outlines county-by-county liquor sales, including specific spending metrics per resident and high-performing bars by sales volume. This data aims to provide transparency and insights into the economic impact of the liquor industry across the state.

As the liquor market in Michigan continues to demonstrate robust activity, the figures for 2024 reaffirm the importance of distilled spirits transactions within the state’s economy and the ongoing consumer demand for such products. The stability in purchases year over year reflects a consistent interest in alcohol consumption among residents and visitors alike.

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Additional Resources

• Detroit Free Press: Top Counties and Retailers in Michigan Spirit Purchases 2024
• Lansing State Journal: Thanksgiving Alcohol Sales in Michigan
• MLive: Michigan Bars and Stores Liquor Purchases
• Wikipedia: General Information
• Encyclopedia Britannica: General Knowledge