The number of operating breweries in Britain has dropped by 2% in the first quarter 2024, according to the Society of Independent Brewers. The total number of independent breweries in Britain now stands at 1,777.
The year-on-year comparison shows a more positive picture, with some regions seeing overall growth when compared to this time in 2023.
The reason for closures outpacing openings is similar to the US, where shifting consumer preferences have combined with a higher cost of doing business and inflation taking a bite out of overall spending.
The US has yet to see a decline in operating breweries despite the challenges. The total U.S. operating brewery count was 9,906 at the end of 2023, up from 9,824 in 2022.
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