“Craft brewers are key in keeping the overall industry innovative and growing,” says chief economist for the Brewers Association.
The Brewers Association (BA), the trade association representing small and independent American craft brewers, released 2014 data on U.S. craft brewing growth. For the first-time ever, craft brewers reached double-digit (11%) volume share of the marketplace.
In 2014, craft brewers produced 22.2 million barrels, and saw an 18% rise in volume and a 22% increase in retail dollar value. 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 U.S. 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 only 46 closings.
Combined with already existing and established breweries and brew pubs, craft brewers provided 115,469 jobs, an increase of almost 5,000 from the previous year.
“These small businesses are one of the bright spots in both our economy and culture. Craft brewers are serving their local communities, brewing up jobs and boosting tourism,” added Watson. “Craft brewers are creating high quality, differentiated beers; new brewers that match this standard will be welcomed in the market with open arms.”