The wine and beverage shops run by the Nordic government have seen sales increase by more than 40 percent in the month compared to the same month a year earlier. Normally, Norwegians en masse cross the border to stock up on drinks, but this is not possible given the travel restrictions associated with the corona virus.
The Norwegian state has a monopoly on the sale of all alcoholic beverages, except beer. Figures from Vinmonopolet show on Monday that almost 30 percent more liquor was sold in the period from January.
Norway, like many other countries, closed its borders in mid-March to stem the further spread of the corona virus. The catering industry also closed, so Norwegians who wanted to drink had to rely on the state shops.
“Revenue has increased, but not more than you might expect given the loss of imports, duty-free sales and the closure of restaurants, cafes and bars,” said a spokesperson for Vinmonopolet.
The catering industry in Norway is now gradually opening again and Danes are welcome again from mid-June. Restrictions will continue to apply to all other countries, such as mandatory quarantine. This also applies to Sweden, the country where the Norwegians mainly get their drinks.
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