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Last year had its share of ups and downs for the craft beer industry but there were more than a few highlights and defining moments of success. Of particular note in 2O18:
STABLE AND STEADY The craft brewing industry continues to grow. The Brewers Association’s mid-year survey measured 5 percent growth by volume, and although there have been signs of slightly slower growth in the second half of the year, craft beer sales were projected to reach a new high in 2O18.
BIG IMPACT FROM SMALL BREWERIES As craft’s market share has grown, so has its economic impact, which totals more than $76 billion. The craft brewing community is responsible for 5OO,OOO jobs, with more than 135,OOO of those directly at breweries and brewpubs.
7OOO STRONG AND GROWING The number of breweries in the United States hit yet another all-time high in 2O18, eclipsing 7OOO at the end of October. Final numbers were still being compiled, but there will potentially be 1OOO openings in 2O18.
#SEEKTHESEAL More than 4OOO craft brewing companies have adopted the independent craft brewers seal since its inception in June 2O17, representing 85 percent of the volume of craft beer brewed. In the Brewers Association’s first-ever national advertising campaign That’s Independence You’re Tasting encouraged enthusiasts to #SeektheSeal.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE Craft brewers are putting their savings from a recalibrated federal excise tax to work through economic development, new hires, increased employee benefits and pay, and increased charitable contributions.
THE HAZE CRAZE The Brewers Association added three juicy or hazy styles to its Beer Style Guidelines and Great American Beer Festival competition, resulting in a record number of entries.
JUST BREW IT It’s estimated that 1.1 million homebrewers in the U.S. brewed 1.4 million barrels of beer, equal to 1 percent of U.S. beer production.