Zacks Equity Research has identified Anheuser-Busch InBev, Diageo, Constellation Brands, Brown-Forman and Molson Coors Beverage as key players to watch in the alcoholic beverages industry as it navigates structural changes. The industry faces headwinds from moderation trends among younger and health-conscious consumers, which are weighing on long-term demand for traditional beer, wine and spirits, while tariffs and elevated costs for packaging, freight, labor and agricultural inputs pressure margins. However, growth opportunities exist through innovation in ready-to-drink cocktails and low- and no-alcohol beverages, with companies that diversify their portfolios better positioned to offset volume declines. The Zacks Beverages – Alcohol industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank of 189, placing it in the bottom 23% of more than 250 Zacks industries, and has returned 4.1% over the past year, underperforming the S&P 500's 23.9% gain. All five highlighted stocks hold a Zacks Rank of 3, with Anheuser-Busch InBev's consensus estimates suggesting 2026 sales and earnings growth of 8.4% and 15.8%, respectively, while Diageo's fiscal 2027 estimates indicate declines of 1.4% and 1.8%.
Anheuser Busch Inbev NV ADRFaces moderation headwinds in traditional beer but is better positioned via RTD and low/no-alcohol innovation, with consensus 2026 sales and earnings growth of 8.4% and 15.8%.
Brown-Forman Corporation
Diageo PLC
Constellation Brands Inc Class A
Molson Coors Brewing Co Class B