From the Brewers Association: The 2025 Year in Beer

As 2025 comes to a close, the Brewers Association (BA) recaps a year of continued contraction, punctuated by creativity and innovation. 

Statistical highlights are included below, and the full Year in Beer can be viewed here.

Craft Beer by the Numbers

• Count: The number of small and independent breweries in operation in the U.S. in 2025 totaled 9,778.

• Employment: The craft beer industry supported over 443,000 jobs nationwide, fostering local economies and creating opportunities.

• Economic Impact: Craft beer’s contribution to the U.S. economy reached $72.5 billion, demonstrating its vital role in the broader beverage market.

The Trends of 2025 

• Consolidation: This year, there was a continued democratization and expansion of what it means to be a “brewer.” With acquisitions, mergers, and collaborations, the stainless tanks in the background may not be as important as the brand story.

• New Approaches to Hospitality: As consumers increasingly seek meaningful opportunities to connect, craft breweries are leaning into their role as community “third spaces.” Whether through more substantial food offerings, an expanded range of beverage types, or more targeted programming, breweries are diversifying their revenue streams by appealing to specific consumer groups.

• Growth in Low ABV: In addition to non-alc’s continued growth streak, there has also been significant expansion in the low- to mid-strength segments (typically defined as <4.0% ABV). Brewers are seeking to capture more occasions that call for great flavor without the buzz. 

Please reach out if you have any questions or if you might be interested in an interview with Matt Gacioch, BA staff economist.

Contact: jessie.vandenhouten@backbone.media

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