Growing market share for bitter and palinka

Retail sales of spirits increased by 8 percent in the August 2007- July 2008 period, compared to the preceding year, reaching HUF 72 billion. Sales in terms of quantity increased by 1 percent. Popularity of palinka, the biggest segment in terms of quantity has continued to grow. The market share of palinka has reached 19 percent in terms of quantity and 20 percent in terms of value. Bitter is first in terms of value, with a 21 percent market share. The market shares of brandy and vodka have dropped to 15 and 14 percent respectively. Liqueur and whisky both account for 10 percent of sales respectively. Sales show a smaller than usual degree of concentration compared to other food categories. Smaller than 400 square meter stores account for over 50 percent of total palinka, vodka and rum sales. The market share of private labels has increased to 21 percent in terms of quantity.