When Russians Stop Drinking, Vodka Sales Plunge
The Telegraph
Stricter rules, economic problems and changing social habits mean that Russians are consuming less alcohol, and that's sobering news for the global vodka industry
In good news for Russian life expectancy but sobering news for vodka distilleries, the largest country in the world is turning away from alcohol.
Alcohol consumption in Russia, which is believed to have fallen into economic recession, dropped by 6.3pc in 2014 amid ongoing political tension, the collapse in oil prices and a government crackdown on drinking.
Russians drank 12pc less vodka last year, according to data from Euromonitor International, dragging down global sales of the clear spirit by 5pc, its biggest slump in at least five years.
