Iron Hill Brewery Closes Three Key Locations Amid Industry Consolidation
The Iron Hill Brewery chain announced the immediate closure of three locations, including its flagship brewpub in Newark, Delaware. This move highlights accelerating industry consolidation within the mid-Atlantic region, impacting establishments in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey (Beer Street Journal, 2025).
Seattle’s Outer Planet Brewing to Close, Reflecting Challenges for Small Breweries
Outer Planet Brewing in Seattle’s Capitol Hill is set to close after a decade of operation. Co-owner Gabriel Villenave cited unsustainable operational costs and industry consolidation pressures as key reasons. Despite attempts to pass the brewery on to new owners, no viable successors emerged. This closure underscores difficulties faced by small craft breweries competing with larger players (Capitol Hill Seattle, 2025).
Global Craft Beer Market Shows Strong Growth Projections
Despite regional closures, the global craft beer market is projected to expand significantly, with an expected market size of $111.3 billion in 2025 and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.9% through 2032. Growth drivers include increased collaborations between brewers and hospitality sectors, digital innovation in distribution, and consumer demand for distinct flavors and brand stories (MetaStat Insight, 2025).
US Craft Beer Market Remains Frontline of Innovation and Sustainability
In the United States, craft beer accounts for nearly 87% of North America’s market share. Consumer preferences increasingly lean toward artisanal products and sustainability, with 43% of consumers valuing eco-friendly packaging and some willing to pay a premium for sustainable options. The market is predicted to reach approximately $330 billion by 2033, growing at an 8.74% CAGR. Millennials and health-conscious consumers are pivotal in pushing demand for innovative flavors and environmentally responsible practices (IMARC Group, 2025).
Declining Brewery Numbers Yet Mixed Performance Among US Craft Brewers
The Brewers Association’s 2025 Midyear Report notes a 1% decline in active craft breweries in the US, with a 3% drop in microbreweries and an overall 5% production decline year-over-year. However, about half of respondents reported increased production, especially smaller breweries making less than 1,000 barrels annually. Taprooms and brewpubs are showing more resilience compared to distribution-focused breweries, highlighting the value of hyperlocal, on-site models in the current economic climate (Craft Brewing Business, 2025).
Craft Beer Celebrates Milestones and Classic Recipes
Home Brew Mart in San Diego commemorated its 30th anniversary, with Ballast Point Brewing reviving classic recipes like the Copper ESB and new creations such as Lucas Orr’s Belgian-style golden strong ale ‘La Finta Nona’. This event reflects the enduring passion and creativity within the craft beer community (San Diego Beer News, 2025).
Emerging Industry Trends: Cannabis-Infused Beverages
A notable trend for 2025 is the rise of cannabis-infused drinks, often termed the “fifth category,” which includes beverages with THC, hemp, and related compounds. With 30% of U.S. adults identifying as cannabis consumers and a growing perception of cannabis as a healthier alternative to alcohol, this segment is expected to grow rapidly, influencing traditional beer consumption habits (Hop Culture, 2025).