State alcohol monopoly retailer Alko sold 92.7 million litres of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages last year, representing a 13 percent increase from the 82.1 million litres sold in 2019.
The dramatic spike in trade reversed a decade-long trend which had seen Alko’s sales gradually decline year after year.
In a statement, Alko said the coronavirus pandemic, which saw people bulk-buying and staying at home in the initial stages of the outbreak as well as the closure of bars and restaurants and other restrictions on movement and travel, contributed to the increased sales.
Wine proved to be particularly popular among customers during 2020, with sales up by 15 percent from 2019. This increase was especially driven by sales of rosé wines, which saw a 40 percent increase year-on-year.
Meanwhile white wine sales were up 17 percent and red wines by 15 percent.
Sales of spirits increased by 10 percent, beers and ciders by 6 percent and non-alcoholic beverages by 7 percent.
