As steel tariffs and rising costs put added pressure on breweries and beverage producers, now more than ever it's important to take a hard look at your operation’s financial health and future. At Glacier Tanks, we’re feeling the squeeze too—and we want to provide useful, strategic content to help producers navigate today’s industry climate.
This article is a full-picture guide to evaluating your place in the market, understanding industry trends, and knowing how (and when) to adjust your business plan, your production model, or your equipment.
Industry at a Glance: A Maturing Market
The U.S. craft beer industry is shifting. According to the Brewers Association’s 2024 industry report:
Production volumes declined 4%: "Craft brewers produced 23.1 million barrels of beer in 2024, a 4.0% decrease from 2023. However, craft’s market share by volume remained essentially flat at 13.3%, the same share as in 2023, as the overall U.S. beer market declined by 1.2% in volume."
Missouri Ridge Distillery & Brewery
Duane Teach