Getting your drink on: The overall sales and consumption of beer, wine and spirits increased in the United States during 2008, although growth happened at a slower pace. The Beverage Information Group, which released a study on alcohol sales, says the recession had an impact, as consumers traded down from premium brands. Beer imports, which grew by 12% in 2006, dropped by 1.2% in 2008. Wine imports dropped by 1.7%. One bright spot: Light beer sales increased by 2.2%, and now represent 51.8% of the beer market.
Buyer beware: Supply and demand is causing some used cars to cost more than new models. Consider this: The average cost of a used 2008 Honda Accord EX sedan, certified by the dealership, was $21,544 earlier this month, according to Edmunds.com, a car-buying Web site. A new 2009 model cost $80 less. With new car sales at a 27-year low and desperate dealers piling on rebates and incentives, prices are plummeting. At the same time, demand is up for used cars and their values are rising. Read the full story here.
