What was once limited to local breweries or specialty shops is now just a click away with the trend to buy craft beer online. It not only gives you the opportunity to get your hands on the rarest and most international products but also provides local breweries the opportunity to reach more consumers. 

In this blog, you’ll explore the growing trend of buying craft beer online and why it’s become such a popular choice for beer lovers.

Craft Beer Market Trends

In 2024, the US craft beer market faced a historic 4% decline in production, dropping to 23.1 million barrels - the largest fall outside the pandemic years. This marks the third consecutive year of negative growth of the industry, which is primarily driven by market saturation and changing alcohol consumption habits, especially among younger adults. (source)

Despite this downfall, craft’s market share held steady at 13.3% of total beer volume. Also, buying craft beer online has shown resilience. For example, a UK beer brand, Jubel, said its online sales have increased up to 1400% since the outbreak of the pandemic. (source)

As of now, there are 1552 businesses in the online beer industry in the United States, which has grown at a CAGR of 8.2% between 2019 and 2024. (source)

Why Do People Prefer Craft Beer?

1. Flavor and Quality Over Mass Production

One of the primary reasons consumers buy craft beer online is its superior taste and diverse flavor profiles. Unlike mass-produced lagers, craft beers are often brewed in smaller batches with a focus on quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and local sourcing. 

In 2024, there were 9,612 operating craft breweries in the US. This includes various types of breweries, such as microbreweries, brewpubs, taproom breweries, and regional craft breweries. (source)

2. Local and Independent Appeal

As people become more intentional about their purchases, many choose to buy craft beer online to support independent local breweries. 

The “drink local” trend has become more popular in recent years, especially since the late 2010s. It’s all about supporting local craft brewers, distillers, and wineries by choosing drinks made close to home.

3. Health-Conscious Consumer Preferences

Today’s drinkers are more mindful of what they consume. They favor products with transparent ingredients and healthier brewing practices. 

Many opt to buy craft beer online to find low-calorie, gluten-free, or organic options not available at chain retailers. 

66% of craft beer buyers reported that they are either “very” or “extremely” likely to buy craft beer based on its packaging and label. (source)

4. The Convenience of E-Commerce

With the rise of e-commerce, it has never been easier to buy craft beer online. Consumers enjoy the convenience of browsing exclusive brews, reading reviews, and having beer delivered straight to their doors. 

According to Statista, the alcohol ecommerce market is forecast to continue its steady growth, with global revenues reaching 67 billion US dollars by 2029. (source)

Conclusion

It's now easier than ever to buy craft beer online. You can find many different types of craft beer from around the world without leaving your home. Online shops give you details about each beer, like how it tastes and how it's made so you know what you’re getting. 

A great place to buy craft beer online is 7201 BRBR, where you can find rare and popular brews delivered straight to your home. Shop now!