Sale of alcoholic beverages falls 52% in the second half of March

The sale of alcoholic beverages fell 52% in the period from March 15 to 31, according to the Brazilian Beverage Association (Abrabe). The entity, which brings together producers of spirits, cachaça, beer and wines, says that 40% felt an even greater decline in revenue. The reason is that 61% of alcohol consumption happens in bars, restaurants, nightclubs and events, according to research by KPMG for the entity. These places remain closed to avoid agglomerations, due to the control of the proliferation of covid-19. To try to mitigate the impact of the restriction on consumption, Abrabe says it negotiates a series of measures with the government, such as postponing the collection of taxes and making credit lines available. Companies in the sector generate more than 30,000 vacancies. Even with the crisis, they have donated more than 200,000 liters of 70% alcohol to hospitals, nursing homes and communities.