Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of East Texas, Rusk is a charming city known for its historical significance and vibrant community spirit. As the county seat of Cherokee County, Rusk has a unique blend of small-town charm and regional importance that attracts both residents and visitors alike. This article delves into a comprehensive data-driven analysis of the city’s alcohol sales market, providing valuable insights into consumer behavior and business performance.
This report begins with a detailed examination of Rusk’s leading alcohol-selling establishments. Through a table and analysis, readers will discover which venues are the most popular among locals and why they stand out. Following this, we break down alcohol sales by zip code, revealing the areas with the highest concentration of sales and what this means for local businesses and community trends.
Finally, the article presents a monthly trends analysis that charts the fluctuations in alcohol sales over the past year. This section sheds light on seasonal patterns and economic influences affecting consumer choices. Whether you are a business owner, a resident, or just curious about the local economy, this report offers a clear and concise overview of Rusk's alcohol sales landscape as of April 2025.
Top 11 Rusk Businesses By April 2025 Alcohol Sales
# | Establishment | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. |
Tia Juanita's Fish Camp
|
$68,510 |
$43,961
|
$1,405
|
$23,144
|
2. |
Boomer's
|
$37,037 |
$20,927
|
$349
|
$15,761
|
3. |
Henderson Star Cafe
|
$17,631 |
$9,140
|
$0
|
$8,491
|
4. |
Sundowners Bar & Grill
|
$11,476 |
$4,821
|
$3,814
|
$2,841
|
5. |
Henderson Country Club Inc
|
$9,869 |
$4,099
|
$521
|
$5,249
|
6. |
Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant
|
$9,851 |
$5,958
|
$87
|
$3,806
|
7. |
Tequila Veintiuno Mexican Cuisine
|
$6,735 |
$6,118
|
$0
|
$617
|
8. |
Don Felix Mexican Restaurant & Cantina LLC
|
$4,348 |
$2,241
|
$0
|
$2,107
|
9. |
Rusk Co. Memorial Post No. 8535, Veterans of Forei
|
$4,193 |
$2,564
|
$4
|
$1,625
|
10. |
Orta's Restaurant
|
$3,029 |
$1,865
|
$0
|
$1,164
|
11. |
Six Red Thorns, Inc.
|
$345 |
$113
|
$0
|
$232
|
Top Performers in Rusk's Alcohol Sales
April 2025 saw Tia Juanita's Fish Camp leading the pack with total receipts of $68,510. The establishment dominated with liquor sales at $43,961, showcasing a strong preference for spirits among its patrons. Beer sales were also substantial, contributing $23,144 to its total.
Boomer's, another key player, recorded total sales of $37,037. With liquor sales at $20,927 and beer following at $15,761, it maintained a solid position as a favorite local spot. Interestingly, their wine sales were minimal at just $349.
Noteworthy Trends and Insights
Henderson Star Cafe made a notable impression with total receipts of $17,631, driven by a nearly even split between liquor and beer sales. Meanwhile, Sundowners Bar & Grill distinguished itself with a balanced offering across liquor, wine, and beer, totaling $11,476.
Jalapeno Tree Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Veintiuno Mexican Cuisine both highlight the community's affinity for Mexican cuisine paired with liquor, with the latter boasting a higher percentage of its total sales from liquor at $6,118 out of $6,735 total.
Smaller Establishments and Insights
Henderson Country Club Inc and Don Felix Mexican Restaurant & Cantina LLC also contributed to Rusk's vibrant alcohol scene, each focusing heavily on liquor and beer sales. The Country Club had more balanced sales, whereas Don Felix showed a preference for liquor.
At the smaller end, Orta's Restaurant and Six Red Thorns, Inc. reported modest sales, with Orta's slightly favoring liquor over beer. Six Red Thorns had an unusual split, with beer sales exceeding those of liquor, albeit on a smaller scale.
Rusk Zip Codes By April 2025 Alcohol Sales
# | Zip Code | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. |
75652
|
8 | $154,468 |
$90,755
|
$2,366
|
$61,347
|
2. |
75654
|
2 | $18,211 |
$10,939
|
$3,814
|
$3,458
|
3. |
75691
|
1 | $2,578 |
$0
|
$0
|
$0
|
4. |
75681
|
1 | $345 |
$113
|
$0
|
$232
|
High Concentration of Alcohol Sales
When it comes to alcohol sales in Rusk, zip code 75652 is undoubtedly the frontrunner, raking in a whopping $154,468 out of the total $175,602 in sales. With eight establishments contributing to this figure, it's clear that 75652 is the go-to spot for alcohol purchases. This area accounts for nearly 88% of the total sales, making it a prime location for any potential business ventures looking to tap into a thriving market.
Sales Mix Across Zip Codes
Examining the types of alcohol sold, zip code 75652 has a diverse mix, with 59% of sales from liquor and 40% from beer. In contrast, 75654, although much smaller in total sales, leans heavily toward liquor at 60% but also has a significant wine market at 21%. Interestingly, 75691 appears to have no sales mix at all, which could indicate either a reporting anomaly or a unique market quirk worth investigating.
Opportunities for New Establishments
With only two establishments, zip code 75654 shows potential for growth, especially considering its balanced sales mix and substantial liquor sales. Additionally, the minimal presence in 75681, with only one establishment and total sales of $345, suggests an underdeveloped market. Entrepreneurs might find opportunities in these areas by focusing on either niche offerings or expanding the current selection.
Interesting Patterns and Insights
The data highlights a significant disparity in alcohol consumption patterns between the zip codes. While 75652 dominates the market, the lack of wine sales in 75681 and the absence of any sales mix in 75691 are notable. These observations could guide targeted marketing strategies or inform decisions about product diversification to cater to untapped consumer bases.
Rusk Alcohol Sales Trends: Last 12 Months
Month | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer | Monthly Change |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Apr 2025 | 11 | $173,024 |
$101,807
|
$6,180
|
$65,037
|
5.7%
↓
|
Mar 2025 | 11 | $183,564 |
$111,459
|
$5,990
|
$66,115
|
20.7%
↑
|
Feb 2025 | 10 | $152,058 |
$90,566
|
$4,782
|
$56,710
|
1.3%
↑
|
Jan 2025 | 12 | $150,082 |
$83,373
|
$4,095
|
$52,838
|
10.1%
↓
|
Dec 2024 | 12 | $166,920 |
$95,891
|
$6,220
|
$62,231
|
2.7%
↓
|
Nov 2024 | 12 | $171,518 |
$100,156
|
$2,806
|
$65,978
|
26.1%
↓
|
Oct 2024 | 12 | $231,948 |
$129,216
|
$2,588
|
$97,566
|
52.3%
↑
|
Sep 2024 | 12 | $152,282 |
$93,484
|
$2,063
|
$56,735
|
11.2%
↓
|
Aug 2024 | 11 | $171,497 |
$103,374
|
$2,532
|
$63,013
|
11.6%
↑
|
Jul 2024 | 11 | $153,642 |
$93,709
|
$2,276
|
$57,657
|
6.3%
↓
|
Jun 2024 | 11 | $163,905 |
$98,314
|
$2,272
|
$63,319
|
7.9%
↓
|
May 2024 | 11 | $177,898 |
$108,758
|
$9,877
|
$59,263
|
0%
↑
|
Overview of Alcohol Sales in Rusk
Over the past year, Rusk's alcohol market has shown some interesting fluctuations. The month of October 2024 stood out with the highest total receipts, reaching $231,948. This spike was driven by a substantial increase in liquor and beer sales, suggesting a seasonal or event-driven demand during that time. Since then, sales have generally settled into a more stable pattern, with some ups and downs.
Liquor Dominates the Market
Liquor consistently leads the sales mix, accounting for more than half of the total receipts each month. The peak in October 2024 saw liquor sales topping $129,216, while most other months hovered around the $90,000 to $110,000 range. This indicates a strong preference for liquor among consumers, which might suggest opportunities for businesses to expand their liquor offerings or promotions.
Beer Sales Show Resilience
Beer sales have remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations. The highest beer receipts were recorded in October 2024 at $97,566, aligning with the overall peak in sales. Typically, beer contributes significantly to the total monthly receipts, with figures ranging from approximately $52,000 to $66,000. This consistency suggests a steady demand, providing a reliable revenue stream for businesses.
Wine: A Smaller Slice of the Pie
Wine sales present a more variable picture, with receipts generally much lower than those for liquor and beer. Notable was the dip in November 2024, where wine sales plummeted to $2,806, contrasting with $9,877 in May 2024. Despite these fluctuations, wine remains a smaller component of the overall sales mix, hinting at potential growth areas if businesses can tap into niche markets or seasonal trends.
Market Dynamics and Establishment Trends
The number of establishments in Rusk has remained relatively stable, mostly hovering between 11 to 12 over the past year. A significant increase in total receipts was observed in March 2025, up by 20.72%, likely influenced by the addition of an establishment that month. This suggests that even small changes in the number of outlets can significantly impact sales, offering potential for strategic expansion.
Concluding Insights
Overall, the alcohol sales trends in Rusk indicate a robust market with clear preferences for liquor, followed by beer. Seasonal spikes, such as those observed in October 2024, highlight the importance of timing in promotions and product offerings. For businesses looking to capitalize on these trends, focusing on liquor and beer products, along with strategic expansion and seasonal promotions, could prove beneficial.
Economic Overview
Rusk, Texas, serves as a vibrant hub within Cherokee County, with its economy primarily driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The city's fertile lands support a thriving agricultural sector, with crops and livestock being significant contributors. Additionally, the presence of light manufacturing facilities adds diversity to the local economy, providing employment opportunities and supporting community growth. The city also benefits from its strategic location, which attracts businesses seeking a balance between rural charm and access to larger metropolitan areas.
Healthcare plays a critical role in Rusk's economic landscape, with several medical facilities offering comprehensive services to residents and surrounding communities. The city's focus on healthcare has not only improved local health outcomes but also created a stable employment base. Economic development initiatives are in place to further enhance Rusk's business climate, encouraging investment and innovation within these core industries.
Cultural Scene
Rusk is rich in cultural heritage, celebrated through a variety of events and attractions that draw both residents and visitors. The Texas State Railroad provides a unique cultural experience, offering scenic rides through the Piney Woods and hosting seasonal events that highlight the region's history. The Rusk Civic Center is a focal point for community gatherings, hosting performances, exhibitions, and educational programs that showcase local talent and creativity.
Annual events such as the Heritage Festival and Fair on the Square are beloved traditions, bringing together craftspeople, musicians, and food vendors to celebrate the area's diverse cultural tapestry. These events provide excellent opportunities for networking and community engagement, making Rusk a culturally vibrant city.
Lifestyle
Rusk offers a charming blend of small-town warmth and dynamic living, with a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles. The historic downtown area is a popular spot, featuring quaint shops, local eateries, and community parks that enhance the city's appeal. Residential areas are characterized by their friendly atmosphere and proximity to schools, making them ideal for families.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the city's natural beauty, with numerous parks and recreational activities available. The local character is defined by a strong sense of community, volunteerism, and pride in maintaining the city's welcoming environment. This makes Rusk an attractive location for both families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Future Outlook
Rusk is poised for growth, with several development plans aimed at enhancing infrastructure, attracting new businesses, and improving quality of life. Investments in transportation and technology are expected to bolster the city's economic prospects, making it more attractive to investors and entrepreneurs. The city government is actively pursuing initiatives to diversify the local economy, support small businesses, and create sustainable development.
Population growth trends indicate a steady increase, driven by the city's appeal as a desirable place to live and work. This growth is anticipated to bring new opportunities and challenges, with a focus on maintaining Rusk's unique charm while fostering economic vitality. The future looks bright for Rusk as it continues to evolve into a thriving community with a strong economic foundation.