Hard Seltzer - Iraq

The Hard Seltzer market in Iraq is experiencing significant growth due to changing consumer preferences and a shift towards healthier beverage options.

Customer preferences: Customers in Iraq are increasingly seeking out low-calorie and low-sugar beverages that align with their health-conscious lifestyles. This has led to a growing demand for Hard Seltzers, which are perceived as a healthier alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. The light and refreshing nature of Hard Seltzers also appeals to consumers who are looking for a more enjoyable drinking experience.

Trends in the market: One of the key trends driving the growth of the Hard Seltzer market in Iraq is the increasing popularity of flavored alcoholic beverages. Consumers are drawn to the wide range of flavors available in Hard Seltzers, which include fruit-infused options such as lime, strawberry, and grapefruit. These flavors not only enhance the taste but also provide a refreshing and unique drinking experience. Another trend in the market is the rise of convenience. Hard Seltzers are often packaged in cans, making them easy to transport and consume on-the-go. This convenience factor appeals to busy consumers who are looking for a hassle-free drinking option.

Local special circumstances: Iraq is a country with a predominantly Muslim population, and the consumption of alcohol is restricted by Islamic law. However, there is a growing segment of the population that is more open to trying new and innovative beverages. Hard Seltzers, with their low alcohol content and refreshing flavors, have gained acceptance among this segment of consumers.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The growing economy in Iraq has led to an increase in disposable income among consumers. As a result, there is a greater willingness to spend on premium and imported products, including Hard Seltzers. This has created a favorable market environment for international brands to enter the Iraqi market and capitalize on the growing demand for these beverages. In conclusion, the Hard Seltzer market in Iraq is experiencing growth due to changing consumer preferences for healthier and more refreshing alcoholic beverages. The popularity of flavored options and the convenience factor are driving this trend. Despite the cultural restrictions on alcohol consumption, there is a growing acceptance of Hard Seltzers among a segment of the population. The favorable macroeconomic conditions in Iraq, including increasing disposable income, further contribute to the growth of the market.

Data coverage:
The data encompasses B2C enterprises. The at-home market covers retail sales via super- and hypermarkets, eCommerce, convenience stores, or similar sales channels. The out-of-home data encompasses all sales to hotels, restaurants, catering, cafés, bars, and similar hospitality service establishments. Combined numbers encompass both the at-home market and the out-of-home market. Both the at-home and the out-of-home market are valued at retail selling prices including all sales and consumption taxes.

Modeling approach:
Market sizes are determined through a Top-Down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending (e.g. consumer spending on alcoholic beverages, consumer spending at Hotels, Restaurants etc.), and price level index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:
In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Alcoholic Drinks market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:
The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level.