America’s craft beer renaissance is still in full swing according to official data just released by the Brewers Association.
As of June 30, 2016, the total number of operating breweries in the United States stands at 4,656. This is yet another record high and it represents an increase of 917 compared to the same time last year. In addition, craft beer production in the United States increased eight percent during the first six months of 2016, providing further proof that the craft beer industry still has room to grow. Brewers Association chief economist Bart Watson says the market may not be growing as quickly as it did in the recent past, but this is expected and in no way signals a slowdown.
“While the craft brewing industry is entering a period of maturation, most markets are not near saturation,” said Watson. “As craft’s base gets larger, as with any industry, it becomes more difficult for it to grow at the same percentage rate. Yet there is still tremendous dynamism reflected in eight percent growth for craft. Production growth of small and independent craft brewers continues to be one of the main bright spots for domestic beer in the U.S. Even in a more competitive market, for the vast majority of small and independent brewers, opportunities still exist.”
Besides the 4,656 breweries operating as of June 30, there are another 2,200 breweries in the planning stages. The craft beer industry employs approximately 121,843 full-time and part-time workers in various roles, providing further evidence of the industry’s vitality and growing importance to the U.S. economy. The number of brewery closures remains only a fraction of the number of openings- a fact that contributes to the increasing number of operating breweries as a whole. Watson doesn’t see this trajectory changing anytime soon.
“The opening rate compared to closing rate for breweries remains incredibly strong, with a historic number of breweries operating in the U.S.,” said Watson. “As long as there is growing consumer demand, beer lovers’ thirst will continue to advance the category of craft brewed beer from small and independent producers.”
To learn more about America’s craft beer business, visit the Brewers Association online at www.brewersassociation.org.
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