The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division (ABD) has released its fiscal year 2019 annual report.
Overall, total liquor sales increased 6.1% over the previous fiscal year to $339 million, and $126 million was transferred to the State’s General Fund for appropriation by the Iowa legislature.
“This report demonstrates that ABD continues to provide a significant return on investment to the citizens of Iowa,” says ABD Administrator Stephen Larson. “The citizen-owned distribution model generated millions of dollars that will be used by the legislature for programs that benefit all Iowans, regardless of whether they choose to consume alcohol.”
During fiscal year 2019, Iowans showed a strong preference for Iowa-made beer, with a 16.3% increase in total gallons sold compared to the previous fiscal year. Liquor and wine gallons sold also increased by 3.5% and 0.65%, respectively. Total gallons of beer not made in Iowa saw a decrease of 1.1%, while gallons of Iowa-made wine sold decreased by 6.5%.
American vodkas, Canadian whiskies and spiced rum were the top three categories of liquor products sold during the fiscal year. Black Velvet whiskey retained its long-standing place as the top-selling brand of liquor sold in the state, while Blue Ox Vodka from Clive-based Dehner Distillery was the most popular Iowa-made spirit.
During the fiscal year, over 18,000 alcohol licenses, permits and certificates were issued, more than 22,000 people were trained and certified in the responsible selling and serving of alcohol and over $152,000 was collected as a result of administrative actions.
“ABD continues to be effective and efficient in the licensing, education and regulation of alcohol,” says Josh Happe, Bureau Chief of ABD’s Regulatory Compliance Bureau. “We will continue working to increase our regulatory footprint in the state, with protecting public health, safety and welfare at the forefront of the work we do.”
The full annual report can be accessed online at abd.iowa.gov/annual-reports.
