CRAFT COOLS BUT STAYS HOT

CRAFT BREWERS are still growing, albeit at a somewhat slower pace, according to new mid-year data released by the Brewers Association. American production volume increased 8% during the first half of the year, though that represents a decrease on the 16% of the same period last year. “While the craft brewing industry is entering a period of maturation, most markets are not near saturation,” said Bart Watson, chief economist, Brewers Association. “As craft’s base gets larger, as with any industry, it becomes more difficult for it to grow at the same percentage rate. Yet there is still tremendous dynamism reflected in 8% growth. Production growth of small and independent craft brewers continues to be one of the main bright spots for domestic beer in the US. Even in a more competitive market, opportunities still exist.” As of this past June, a record high of 4656 breweries were operating in the country, an increase of 917 over the same time period of the previous year. Additionally, there were approximately 22OO more in planning. Craft brewers currently employ an estimated 121,843 full-time and part-time workers in a variety of roles including many of manufacturing jobs.