Strong Growth in Craft Beer Market Expected Globally
The global craft beer market is projected to expand by USD 123.2 billion from 2025 to 2029, growing at a CAGR of 13.7%. This surge is propelled by increasing demand in developing countries and a shift in consumer preferences towards artisanal, locally sourced brews. Millennials and Gen Z consumers are driving growth, favoring diverse flavors and premium quality beers that emphasize sustainability and local ingredients (Brewers Journal, 2025).
US Craft Beer Scene Thrives with New Releases and Collaborations
The Las Vegas and San Diego craft beer markets are bustling with activity. Las Vegas’ Mission Control is hosting a partial tap takeover featuring The Bruery’s rare beers and exclusive holiday bottle releases, fostering a strong local beer culture (A.D. Cook, 2025). Notable collaborations include Neon Desert’s unique brews such as an Irish Red Ale with Modest Brewing and barrel-aged imperial stouts, alongside Beer Zombies’ winter warmer released for their anniversary (A.D. Cook, 2025). Meanwhile, Pizza Port in California celebrates its 27th Strong Ale Festival, presenting over 60 high-ABV beers including innovative collaborations with breweries like Los Molinos and Solaris Beer & Blending, highlighting the ongoing creativity and communal spirit in craft brewing (San Diego Beer News, 2025).
Emerging Trends Shape Craft Beer Production and Consumer Preferences
Hyper-localization remains a dominant trend, with breweries increasingly sourcing ingredients from local farms to enhance authenticity and connect with consumers. The growth of low- and no-ABV beers addresses health-conscious consumers, while experimental fermentation and wild brewing methods expand flavor possibilities (Tastewise, 2025). Limited releases and exclusivity foster consumer interest and brand differentiation amid competitive markets (Hop Culture, 2025). Despite supply chain challenges raising ingredient costs, small breweries continue to innovate to meet evolving demand (Tastewise, 2025).
Regulatory and Market Challenges Persist
The U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau is tackling application backlogs to support the industry, while some breweries, such as Rogue and Revolver, face closures due to shifting market conditions and operational disputes (VinePair, 2025; Brewers Association, 2025). Additionally, political changes have complicated cross-border beer trade with Mexico, prompting contract brewing arrangements domestically to ensure supply continuity (VinePair, 2025).
Future Outlook
Craft beer maintains its position as a cultural and social experience, particularly valued by younger consumers seeking variety, local identity, and sustainability. Ongoing collaborations, innovation in styles, and enhanced consumer engagement indicate continued resilience and market dynamism through 2025 and beyond (Brewers Journal, 2025; Tastewise, 2025; Hop Culture, 2025).