Eastern Europe

As the end of 2021 approaches, almost two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the emergence and rapid spread of the Omicron coronavirus variant has increased uncertainty and weakened the momentum of the global recovery. This series of quarterly reports…

This report considers what socialising will look like in a post-COVID-19 era, focusing on several key questions. A return to the “Roaring Twenties” in the beverages space or a continuing decimation of the on-trade? How has socialising changed (eg…

Convenience continued to drive consumer demand for RTDs in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2023, resulting in solid total volume growth. This growth, combined with rising RTD prices due to inflation, culminated in achieving strong double-digit percentage…

RTDs in Bulgaria witnessed another strong year of recovery in 2023, although this category is still growing from a small base. The re-activation of social lifestyles, people gatherings, festivals and other social occasions underpinned demand. Volume…

In 2023, spirits-based RTDs continued to dominate the Croatian market, bolstered by the popularity of well-known spirit brands that serve as the main ingredients for many of these RTDs. Notable brands include Smirnoff, Absolut vodka, Bacardi and…

RTDs in Estonia is the second largest in the Baltic states after Latvia, with Lithuania showing a different consumption pattern. Sales grew in 2023 as RTDs became a popular choice for consumers seeking a fizzy, low-alcohol alternative to beer or…

RTDs saw a rise in total volume sales in Hungary in 2023. The category was more exposed than most as rapidly rising inflation led Hungarians to exercise greater caution in their spending decisions, as these products are comparatively expensive, and…

RTDs have a strong presence in Latvia but due to its maturity volume sales have slowed in 2023. The lack of regular product innovations in this year, in what is usually a pretty vibrant category, has also contributed to flat volume growth. RTDs…

RTDs saw heavy losses in total volume terms in 2023. In Lithuania, the category has a reputation of low quality with many consumers avoiding RTDs due to high levels of sugar, which can cause more harm than other alcoholic drinks. Concerns over rising…

While convenience continued to drive demand for RTDs in North Macedonia over the review period, the category faced strong declines in 2023. Local consumers, especially young adults, are opting to drink spirits such as gin and whisky which are…