Cheap Brew Rules Recession

The Wall Street Journal says "subpremium" beer brands saw a spike in sales during the critical pre-July 4th brew-buying period while the economy staggers. News flash:

Heineken sales sank 18% from the previous year in grocery, convenience and drug stores during the two-week period ended July 5, followed by Budweiser at 14%. Corona Extra sales dropped 11%, while Miller Lite declined 9% and Bud Light fell 7%. Coors Light sales held up better, falling less than 1% from a year ago.

Meanwhile, sales of “subpremium” beers including Busch, Natural Light and Keystone posted “substantial gains”, according to Ad Age, which didn't provide the specifics.

This came as a shock to me. I had no idea Natty Light was subpremium.  Coors Light obviously benefited from providing those handy blue mountains to let us know when the beer is cold.

And just think how much Natural Light they'd sell if ex-slugger Mikey Mantle were still around.