Beer Starting Strong

Dear Client:Beer is starting the year off strong. In IRI to 1-25, multi-outlet and convenience, it's up 1.2% in volume and 3.7% in dollars, just slightly better than the 52-week trend (1.1% and 3.6% respectively). Usual suspects fell into their places: Domestic premiums eked out a positive dollar showing for the period, up 0.2%; craft dollars are up almost 20%; sub-premiums are a drag, down 2.2%; imports are up 8.8%. Cider's still growing double digits (53%) and PAB dollars are