Craft Beer Growth Worldwide

As evidenced by almost any news report on the subject, we know full well that the craft beer market is growing by leaps and bounds in America. In fact, craft beer growth here in the good old U-S-of-A is on projection to triple by 2017, with more focus being put on locally produced offerings. It is also comforting that many experts, including the great Charlie Papazian, agree that the infamous “craft beer bubble” is less of a threat than originally thought. However, craft beer is not limited to the United States, so let’s take a look at how the craft beer movement is progressing across the world.

Across the pond, Europe is experiencing a beer revolution. While the majority of the beers prevailing in today’s craft culture have their roots firmly planted in the Old World, it is the ingenuity and forward thinking risks taken by today’s craft brewers which has furthered what beer is and can be. European countries are embracing this addition to an established tradition as seen in a 52% rise in American craft exports to the region. Hopefully, the mix of new and old cultures will bring about something greater than the sum of the individual parts.

On the opposite side of the world, Australia and New Zealand are mirroring the American craft beer renaissance more closely than other countries. New offerings are being presented almost daily and the brewing culture has really taken hold which is evidenced by the recent creation of each country’s brewer’s guild in 2011 and 2012. Offerings from breweries like Yeastie Boys and Little Creatures would be welcome additions to any American tap lineup. While the craft segment there controls only 2% of the overall market (sound familiar?) it is growing as quickly as word of mouth and taste of tongue can take it. Cheers to you Australia and New Zealand!

As craft brewing emerges in new areas around the world, the strength of the craft movement will increase overall as a result. Information and education about craft beer will be the driving force behind it taking a foothold and growing around the world. We find it both comforting and exciting that countries other than the U.S. are embracing craft brewing and making it their own. Not only does that mean that you will soon be able to take a craft beer tour of the world (think about that for a second) but it also stands to reason that craft beer is approaching the position of a worldwide commodity which will, hopefully, give rise to a sustainable culture for years to come. We are excited to see and be a part of what happens next.

Cheers,

Eventide