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U.S. Craft Brewers reports double-digit growth
March 21, 2011
The Brewers Association, which is based in Boulder, Colo., and represents a majority of U.S. brewing companies, released 2010 data on the U.S. craft brewing industry. Compared to 2009, small and independent craft brewers experienced a volume increase of 11 percent and retail sales were up 12 percent.
This represents a growth of more than 1 million barrels of craft beer, or more than 14 million new craft cases.
"Beer lovers increased their appreciation for American craft brewers and their beers in 2010," said Paul Gatza, director, Brewers Association. "Craft brewers' stories resonate with Americans who are choosing small, independent companies making delicious beers in more than 100 different styles."
The association also reported a growth in the number of U.S. breweries, with 8 percent more breweries than the previous year. In 2010, there were 1,759 operating breweries. Craft brewers produced 9.9 million barrels, up from an adjusted 8.9 million barrels in 2009.
The 2010 numbers are the craft beer industry’s highest since 1900.
"Prohibition caused a dramatic decline in the number of breweries in the United States, but the number of breweries is now at an all-time high," Gatza said. "With well over 100 new brewery openings in 2010, plus 618 breweries in planning stages, all signs point to continued growth for the industry."
In 2010, craft brewers represented 4.9 percent of volume and 7.6 percent of retail dollars of the total U.S. beer category. The Brewers Association estimates the actual dollar sales figure from craft brewers in 2010 was $7.6 billion, up from $7 billion in 2009.
Overall, the U.S. beer industry represented an estimated retail dollar value of $101 billion. U.S. beer sales were down approximately 1 percent, or 2 million barrels, in 2010 compared to being down 2.2 percent in 2009.
Total beer industry barrels dropped to 203.6 million, down from 205.7 million barrels in 2009. Imports were up 5 percent in 2010, compared to being down 9.8 percent in 2009.
Popularity has been growing for past five years
The Brewers Association data echoes recent research released by Mintel that showed 33 percent of all beer drinkers aged 21 and up are drinking more domestic craft beer.
Only a modest percentage of beer drinkers (13 percent) say they prefer domestic craft or microbrew beers (compared to 43 percent for domestic and 22 percent for imported), but an impressive 59 percent say they like to try them, and 51 percent would try more craft or microbrew beers if they knew more about them.
“Craft beers have increased in popularity in the past five years, and enjoyed a boost in their consumer base,” said Garima Goel Lal, senior analyst at Mintel. “Craft beer is most popular with the 25 to 34-year-old crowd, so manufacturers would be wise to target this demographic and educate them more about artisan beers.”
Some pizza companies are taking note, as well.
For example, as part of its growth plan, Uno Chicago Grill recently announced a new emphasis on American craft beer and affordable cocktail offerings. Guests can now enjoy Samuel Adams Boston Lager and Samuel Adams Seasonal beers served in 16- or 22-ounce Samuel Adams “Perfect Pint” glasses. Also, a selection of other beers is also available in 14- or 20-ounce glasses.
Uno features a variety of regional, as well as craft, non-alcoholic and gluten-free beers.
Mellow Mushroom locations also feature about 100 craft beer options.
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