US craft beer revolution gathers pace

Figures from the Brewers Association (BA), the trade association dedicated to small and independent American brewers, showed that there are also more than 2,000 planned brewery openings.

As of November 2014, the US passed the mark of 3,200 brewers in the country with the number of brewery licenses reaching its highest ever, topping 4,500 in the first sixth months of the year.

Growth​

Bart Watson, chief economist at the Brewers Association, said: “It’s remarkable to see how beer has evolved in the past century. Year over year we’re seeing tremendous growth in the craft beer sector and 2014 proved that craft beer is moving into the mainstream.”

“Consumers are making a conscious choice to buy and try the plethora of options produced by small and independent craft brewers.”

The BA’s stats reveal in the first six month of 2014 craft brewers were the growth point in the overall beer industry, enjoyed 18% growth by volume.

India Pale Ales (IPAs) remained the most favoured beer style. According to retail scan data, IPA is up 47% by volume and 49% by value.

“More and more breweries will spur innovation, meaning there will be even more offerings on hand for beer geeks and beginners to enjoy,” Watson added.