Availability of Outlets and Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages

Abstract

A literature review was conducted on the relationship between the frequency of outlets for alcoholic beverages and consumption. The studies that are most sound methodologically, as well as the majority of other studies, suggest that an increase in the frequency of off-premise outlets is accompanied by an increase of consumption. The impact of on-premise outlets on consumption, however, has generally not shown to be a good predictor of rates of consumption. Suggestions are offered as to why other authors have not arrived at similar conclusions.