Craft Brews Still Surging While Overall U.S. Beer Market Remains Sluggish, Nielsen Says

Despite a strong summer selling season, off-premise beer sales continue to struggle, according to the latest numbers from Nielsen. The most vibrant segment was craft and specialty beers. That segment soared 16.8% by volume in the 52-week period ending September 17—with even stronger value growth (+18%)—despite a high average price of $31.72 per case.

Import volumes declined 1.1%, but domestic beers declined at twice that rate. The below-premium segment ($14.65 average price per case) was the most sluggish, falling 3.9% by volume in the 52-week period. Among import origins, Belgium was the lone bright spot (+26% by volume), primarily due to the continued success of Stella Artois. Total beer sales in Nielsen channels through the 52-week period ending September 17 declined 1.5% by volume, but dollar sales rose by 0.8%. The average price of beer rose 2.3% to $19.74 per case.

Nielsen tracks beer sales in food, drug, liquor and convenience stores and other select channels. Its channels represent just over half of the total U.S. beer market by volume, according to Impact Databank.

Tagged : beer, craft beer

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