Coronavirus

Alcohol sales online almost double during pandemic

Many Brazilians have resorted to increasing their alcohol consumption during social isolation, against World Health Organization guidelines,
Photo: KiefferPix/Shutterstock

Many Brazilians have resorted to increasing their alcohol consumption during social isolation, against World Health Organization guidelines, according to a new study by market research consultancy Compre&Confie. 

According to the data, the sales of alcoholic beverages via e-commerce in Brazil jumped by nearly 94 percent from February 24 to May 3 versus 2019 levels. Also, average purchases increased by 4.3 percent, reaching BRL 310.70 — as a result, revenue in the sector doubled to BRL 77 million in the period. 

Compre&Confie’s executive director André Dias says online purchases have become the new normal, therefore “it is natural that perishable products and alcohol feature in Brazilians’ online shopping list.” However, he also says consumer behavior may be influenced by the anxiety caused by the pandemic.