US brewery count reaches all-time high

The total number of U.S. breweries reached a record level in 2015, according to a year-end review from the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independent American brewers. As of the end of November, there are now 4144 breweries in the country, topping the historic high of 4131 breweries in 1873.

“This is a remarkable achievement, and it’s just the beginning,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “Beer has always been a hallmark of this country and it is even more apparent today as America’s beer culture continues to expand.”

Fifteen states are now home to more than 100 breweries: California, Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Texas, Ohio, Florida, Virginia, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Indiana.

IPA remained the top style sold by independent craft brewers, and continues to grow faster than the overall craft category. Data shows that “locally made” is important to over half of craft beer buyers.

Similarly, knowing that the beer is made by a small and independent brewery is important to a majority of craft drinkers in their purchase decision.