The beer biz never sleeps at American Craft Beer. And here’s just some of what’s been happening in the beer world while you were enjoying the weekend.

41 Colorado Breweries Close in 2024

Colorado’s brewers faced another challenging year in 2024, with even more breweries, taprooms and brewpubs closing than in 2023.

“We are arguably the most important beer producing state in America and should be proud to be the State of Craft Beer. But Colorado’s breweries are facing major challenges,” said Shawnee Adelson, executive director of the Colorado Brewers Guild. “Between inflation, supply chain issues, employee shortages, a pandemic and a downward trend of drinking, these local businesses need the support of the public and lawmakers to survive.”

According to Colorado’s Liquor Enforcement Division, beer sales in the state are down -3.2%, worse than the Brewers Association’s national average showing craft beer down -2% in 2024. Also, more breweries, taprooms and brewpubs closed in 2024 than new ones opened according to the Brewers Association.

Since the pandemic, Colorado’s lost 140 craft breweries  – 41 of those in 2024 and 35 in 2023.

“It was an incredibly difficult decision to close our Denver taproom,” said Christa Kilpatrick, former co-owner of the closed E. Colfax Fiction Beer Company taproom. “The craft beer business is a difficult and demanding one, and it was time to move on to less stressful ventures.”

Colorado’s nearly 450 breweries help create 63,000 jobs, $4 billion in wages each year and contribute $12.7 billion in economic activity for the state.

Words to Drink By

Not all chemicals are bad. Without chemicals such as hydrogen and oxygen, there would be no way to make water, a vital ingredient in beer.” – Dave Barry, American author and columnist

Samuel Adams Extends Red Sox Partnership

On July 11^th, Boston Beer, home to Samuel Adams beer, announced tat it had renewed its multiyear partnership with the Boston Red Sox, remaining the team’s Official Beer for the next decade.

“Born and brewed in Boston, Sam Adams has always been more than just a beer – it’s a reflection of the city’s bold character, rich history, and unwavering pride,” said Lauren True, head of brand, Sam Adams. “Our roots run deep in this community, and we’re proud to be a part of the city’s culture and spirit – so much of which comes alive at Fenway Park. We’re honored to extend our partnership with the Red Sox and continue our presence at this legendary ballpark – a true Boston institution.”

Samuel Adans has long been a supporter of Boston’s sports and local charities.

It has been the official beer of the Boston Marathon for several years, and over has brewed limited-edition beers with hometown athlete legends such as Derrick White and Brad Marchand. Since opening the Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, the brewer has donated beer and tour proceeds to support hundreds of local and regional charities as part of its commitment as a New England neighbor.

Got Something We Need To Know About? Send Your Press Releases to: pr@AmericanCraftBeer.com