2026 Beer Market Report: Craft beer faces continued declines

"Craft is facing a lot of struggles and they have been for the past I would say three to four years post COVID and everything like that, especially with the introduction of ready-to-drink products. So, there's fewer products on the shelf because retailers are swapping them out for faster moving products. That's definitely had an impact as well as the relevancy, I think, with that craft consumer."

"For the 52 weeks ending Dec. 28, 2025, craft beer sales totaled $4.4 billion, a decrease of 4.3%, in total U.S. multi-outlets, grocery, drug, mass merchandisers, convenience, military, and select club and dollar retailers, according to Circana data. Case sales were down 5.8% during that time as well."

"Craft beer declined at a slightly greater rate than the total beer market in 2025 led by brewery closings. However, there were some successes and the category appears positioned for a better performance in 2026, although likely to decline once again."

The craft beer segment faces significant headwinds after three to four years of decline following COVID-19. Sales totaled $4.4 billion for the 52 weeks ending December 28, 2025, representing a 4.3% decrease, with case sales down 5.8%. Ready-to-drink products have displaced craft beers from retail shelves as faster-moving alternatives. Only two of the top ten craft brand families achieved growth: Goose Island and Elysian, both owned by Anheuser-Busch InBev. Brewery closures have accelerated declines, with the segment declining at a greater rate than the total beer market. Industry experts anticipate continued declines in 2025 but expect modest recovery in 2026.

Read at Bevindustry