Craft brewers report growth

On 6 August 2012, the Brewers Association (BA), the trade association representing the majority of U.S. brewing companies, released strong mid-year numbers for America’s small and independent craft brewers. Dollar sales were up 14 percent in the first half of 2012, while volume of craft brewed beer sold jumped 12 percent during that same time period, compared with the same period last year, says the BA.

Volume sales for the first six months of 2012 were an estimated 6.0 million barrels (7 million hl). Despite a number of challenges, including decreased overall beer sales, the mid-year numbers show signs of continued growth for craft breweries, the association reports.

The U.S. now boasts 2126 breweries – an increase of 350 additional breweries since June 2011, taking the total brewery count to a 125-year high.