By Andy Young
The rise and rise of craft brewing in the US has continued with the Brewers Association releasing its latest figures which show strong value and volume growth.
In 2015, craft brewers produced 24.5 million barrels, with 13 per cent rise in volume and a 16 per cent increase in retail value. Retail dollar value was estimated at $22.3 billion, representing 21 per cent market share.
“For the past decade, craft brewers have charged into the market, seeing double digit growth for eight of those years,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “There are still a lot of opportunities and areas for additional growth. An important focus will remain on quality as small and independent brewers continue to lead the local, full-flavored beer movement.”
Small and independent craft brewers in the US now represent 12 per cent market share of the country's overall beer industry. The number of operating breweries in the US grew by 15 per cent to 4269, which is the most at any time in American history.
“Small and independent brewers are a beacon for beer and our economy,” added Watson. “As breweries continue to open and volume increases, there is a strong need for workers to fill a whole host of positions at these small and growing businesses.”
The US craft beer market is now worth US$22.3 billion, which is 16 per cent growth on 2014 and the craft industry provides nearly 122,000 jobs, up over 6000 on the previous year.