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(Bart Watson / Photo © Brewers Association)
It’s clear that craft beer has been facing “headwinds” for a while now, and we wish that the Brewers Association address had been more encouraging. We’ve that, “Words to Drink By” and more.
Not Great News At Craft Beer Industry Address
Craft beer’s most important industry gathering, the Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America® is ON in Indianapolis, Indiana. The conference is presented by the Boulder, Colorado-based Brewers Association and one of its most important segments its annual “State of the Industry” address.
The 2025 address was given by Bart Watson in his new role as the Association’s president and CEO , though he has presented this important address ever since he joined the Brewers Association in 2013.
In his March 2nd address, Watson reiterated that craft breweries in America produced 4.0% less beer in 2024 than in 2023, and for the first time since 2005, more small and independent craft breweries had closes (524) than opened (430).
As Forbes reported Watson’s address titled “Headwinds Or New Reality” was, at best, mixed…
“43% of breweries increased production volume in 20243, indicating that difficulties were not universal. The hardest-hit segment of the industry was the smallest breweries—those brewing less than 500 barrels per year—which collectively produced 9.5% less beer in 2024 than in 2023.
Words to Drink By
“I’m a beer man. I tried to drink whiskey and Scotch, but I don’t get it. It smells like a girl who didn’t shower and just splashed a lot of perfume on.” – Mads Mikkelsen. Danish actor.
(Courtesy Athletic Brewing)
Athletic Brewing Wins Social Impact Awards
On April 28, Athletic Brewing, America’s largest dedicated non-alcoholic brewer, announced that its “Two For The Trails” environmental grant program had received two 2025 Gold Halo Awards for “Best Cause Product Initiative” and “Best Sustainability or Conservation Initiative.”
Now in its 23rd year, The Halo Awards, presented by Engage for Good, are the first and most prestigious honor for excellence in corporate social impact.
Athletic Brewing was recognized for its commitment to protecting and restoring outdoor spaces worldwide through its Two For The Trails environmental grant program, which contributed up to $2 million to more than 170 projects in 2024. To date, the program has contributed more than $6.3 million to trails and outdoor spaces.
“We started Athletic with the belief that business can be a powerful force for good,” said Bill Shufelt, Co-Founder and CEO of Athletic Brewing. “Two For The Trails is our way of giving back, and creating a positive ripple effect that’s felt for generations to come. This recognition is a huge honor and a testament to the amazing work of our nonprofit grant recipients.”
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