The Number of Breweries Operating in the U.S. Grew 16% Last Year

If it seems like there are a ton of new craft breweries popping up in your state, it’s probably because there are. At the end of 2017, there were 6,266 craft breweries in the United States, up from the 5,424 breweries that were around at the close of 2016, according to the Brewers Association.

The Brewer’s Association says that craft brewers produced 25.4 million barrels in 2017, a 5% rise in volume over 2016.

For a little perspective, there were 4,544 breweries in 2015, 3,739 breweries in 2014, and 2,898 in 2013.

“Growth for the craft brewing industry is adapting to the new realities of a mature market landscape,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “Beer lovers are trending toward supporting their local small and independent community craft breweries. At the same time, as distribution channels experience increased competition and challenges, craft brewer performance was more mixed than in recent years, with those relying on the broadest distribution facing the most pressure.”

Throughout the year there were 997 new brewery openings and 165 closings.

The BA also reports that its new independent beer seal is doing well. The seal, which can be used to designate a beer craft was unveiled in June 2017 and had already been adopted by more than 3,100 breweries.

“Beer lovers want to support businesses that align with their values and are having a positive impact on their local communities and our larger society,” added Watson. “That’s what small and independent craft brewers are all about. The ability to seek beers from small and independent producers matters.”