BOULDER, Colo. -- Craft brewers reached double-digit (11%) volume share of the marketplace for the first time ever in 2014. The Brewers Association, the trade association representing small and independent American craft brewers, released 2014 data on U.S. craft brewing growth.
During the year, craft brewers produced 22.2 million barrels and saw an 18% rise in volume and a 22% increase in retail dollar value, according to the report. Retail dollar value was estimated at $19.6 billion representing 19.3% market share.
“With the total beer market up only 0.5% in 2014, craft brewers are key in keeping the overall industry innovative and growing. This steady growth shows that craft brewing is part of a profound shift in American beer culture, a shift that will help craft brewers achieve their ambitious goal of 20% market share by 2020,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “Small and independent brewers are deepening their connection to local beer lovers while continuing to create excitement and attract even more appreciators.”
Additionally, the number of operating breweries in the United States in 2014 grew 19%, totaling 3,464 breweries, with 3,418 considered craft broken down as follows: 1,871 microbreweries, 1,412 brewpubs and 135 regional craft breweries. Throughout the year, there were 615 new brewery openings and 46 closings.
The Brewers Association is the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independent American brewers, their beers and the community of brewing enthusiasts.
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