Beer News: Craft Beer Biz Braces for Higher Aluminum Costs / Stone Brewing Stops Exporting

American Craft Beer|March 12th, 2025|

(Courtesy Stone Brewing / Sapporo USA)

More signs that Japan’s Sapporo may be losing faith in its US craft beer acquisition. Weve that, “Words to Drink By” and more.

Stone Brewing Stops Exporting

In January 2025, Stone Brewing, which was acquired by Sapporo in 2022, pulled out of all 50 of its export markets according to the Drinks Business, a worrisome indication of the Japanese brewing major’s commitment to its American “craft” property.

This decision was not made lightly. Stone’s international export business makes up about 1% of our total sales. Despite our team’s strong efforts, the current environment has challenged our growth.

“We have a clear and very promising plan for future growth,” said Stone/Sapporo CEO Zach Keeling, “ which requires us to concentrate our focus on the US market where both Stone and Sapporo brands are experiencing the most success. We thank our international fans for their years of support.”

The brewery will be turning its focus from craft classics Like its Arrogant Bastard Ale to more dependable selling releases like Delicious IPA and Buenaveza Mexican Lager.

Words to Drink By

“We all know that light travels faster than sound. That’s why certain people appear bright until you hear them speak.” – Albert Einstein, German-born theoretical physicist who is best known for developing the theory of relativity

Craft Beer Biz Braces for Higher Aluminum Costs

A significant of American craft brewers import their beer cans from Canada and even US can producers source their aluminum from up there. And with the March 4th imposition of 25% tariff on Canadian Steel and aluminum, US craft brewers already suffering from razor-thin profit margins are bracing them for even harder times.

“Most breweries in the state can their beer,” said Sarah Bryan, the executive director of the Maine Brewer’s Guild told NPR. “They often source aluminum cans directly from Canadian companies or purchase cans domestically that were manufactured with Canadian aluminum.”

Only one or two Maine brewers consistently bottle their beer, Bryan added…

“Ninety-plus percent of our membership would be affected by higher aluminum costs,” she said. “And it would raise their costs of goods, and inevitably that cost would get passed down to consumers, which is challenging in an already inflationary market.”