Norway's state owned monpoldy sees alcohol sales hit record high

Norway’s state-controlled Vinmonopolet, which has a complete monopoly on alcohol sales above 4.7% abv in the Nordic country, has reported record sales, which have smashed the high reached in the previous year.  

During 2021, sales reached 116.4 million litres, up from the previous year’s record of 113.6 million. “We’re selling more than during the coronavirus year of 2020,” confirmed communications manager Jens Nordahl. “It’s been an enormous jump in business for the entire company,” adding that he expected total sales for 2021 to reach 118 million litres.  

Vinmonopolet outlets in rural areas enjoyed the biggest increase in sales, as many Norwegians spent more time in their country cabins during lockdown. Because of the high taxes and duties on alcohol in Norway, many consumers normally buy much or all of their drinks elsewhere. But international lockdowns and travel restrictions led to far fewer people stocking up on spirits and wines from the duty free stores. Meanwhile the Swedish border closure led to a collapse in cross border shopping.    

While bars and restaurants in Norway were largely closed or subject to restrictions for much of 2021, Vinmonopolet remained open for most of the year. Despite the record-breaking sales of the past two years, Nordahl said he did not believe the new high would be exceeded because of the predicted end, or relaxation, of pandemic related travel restrictions.