Bartending Weekly Brief: June 3–9, 2025
From prestigious industry awards recognizing top talent to shifts in the U.S. spirits market and exciting new product launches, this past week has been buzzing with developments for the bartending community. We’ve also seen significant events and technological advancements aimed at enhancing efficiency and the customer experience. Here’s a concise recap of the most relevant news and trends you might have missed.
I. The Week in Shakes: Top Industry News
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U.S. Spirits Market Forecasts Stabilizing
New data from SipSource, released on June 9, 2025, indicates a potential stabilization in the U.S. spirits market after a period of decline. While overall spirits sales are projected to decrease by 5.6% for the 12 months ending June 2025, the latest forecast predicts a flattening of these negative growth rates by the close of 2025. Categories like Rum, U.S. Whiskey, and Vodka are expected to see their downward trends largely flatten by mid-2026, though remaining negative. Tequila/Agave stands out as an exception, forecasted to approach positive 1% growth by mid-2026, driven by sustained interest in premium tiers.
Published: June 9, 2025
SipSource Forecasting Predicts Flattening of Declines in Key Spirits Categories Through 2026 | WSWA -
Aramark Enhances Hospitality at Travelers Championship
Aramark is elevating the hospitality experience at the 2025 Travelers Championship, taking place from June 16-22, 2025, in Cromwell, CT. As a longtime partner, Aramark’s Portfolio Group is curating an enhanced culinary experience, including a comprehensive range of brands and solutions. Their efforts feature four full-service concession stands, 15 hospitality suites, food trucks, and seven specialty bars offering a diverse array of beverages. This initiative showcases the complex and large-scale beverage service required at major events, providing insights into event bartending and management.
Published: June 9, 2025
Aramark Elevates Hospitality at the 2025 Travelers Championship - Aramark -
The Hospitality Show Opens 2025 Registration
The Hospitality Show, a key event for hospitality leaders, announced on June 3, 2025, that registration is now open for its 2025 show. Scheduled for October 26-28 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, the event aims to help hotels improve operations and drive profitability. Building on previous success, the 2025 show will feature expanded programming, including over 100 speakers across four content stages and a new 1:1 meeting program for buyers and suppliers. This event offers valuable insights and networking opportunities for professionals across the hospitality sector, including those in bar management.
Published: June 3, 2025
https://www.hotel-online.com/press_releases/release/the-hospitality-show-opens-registration-for-2025-event-unveils-new-features-to-help-hotels-drive-profitability/
Tools & Tips
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The Working Bartender: The Best Beginner Bartending Course
This highly-rated Udemy course, updated in February 2025, offers comprehensive training for aspiring and new bartenders. It covers essential skills like using bar tools, cocktail preparation, and techniques for maximizing tips. With 6 hours of content across 97 lectures, it’s a valuable resource for quick skill acquisition and job readiness.
https://www.udemy.com/topic/bartending/?p=3 -
Smart Pouring Systems
These automated liquor dispensation systems ensure consistent measures for every drink, significantly improving accuracy and reducing waste. By guaranteeing uniform cocktails, smart pouring systems enhance the customer experience and can contribute to increased bar revenue. They free up bartenders to focus on more complex tasks and guest interaction.
Stay Ahead: 10 Game-Changing Bar Innovations for 2025 - San Diego Beer News®
Fun Fact
Did you know that the widespread availability of ice dramatically changed the possibilities for cocktails? Before the efforts of Frederic “Ice King” Tudor, who persisted in hauling ice from colder climates to warmer ports, many mixed drinks like the Mint Julep or Martini would have been served at room temperature. Tudor’s success not only made him a billionaire but also revolutionized cocktail culture by making ice a common and essential ingredient, allowing for the chilled, refreshing drinks we enjoy today.
A (Brief) History Of The Cocktail | VinePair
We’d love to hear from you!
Have you participated in any bartending events or utilized new bartending tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with us—we’re featuring selected community voices in next week’s edition.