Why is Europe's beer production declining?

Europe's beer production is declining due to factors like rising costs, tighter regulations, low consumer confidence, and climate pressures on raw materials.

What is the fastest-growing beer segment in Europe?

The fastest-growing segment in the European beer market is non-alcoholic beer, which has seen a 25% increase over five years.

What are The Brewers of Europe asking for?

The Brewers of Europe are urging policymakers for more stability and support to help the beer sector overcome its current challenges.

Home / Business and Economy / Brewers Seek Stability as EU Beer Market Dries Up

Brewers Seek Stability as EU Beer Market Dries Up

8 Dec

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Summary

EU beer production, consumption, and exports have declined for five consecutive years.
Rising costs, tighter regulations, and low consumer confidence impact the beer sector.
Non-alcoholic beer is the fastest-growing segment, up 25% in five years.

Brewers Seek Stability as EU Beer Market Dries Up

Europe's beer industry is grappling with a sustained downturn, marked by five consecutive years of declining production, consumption, and exports. As of late 2025, indicators suggest this trend is set to continue, with overall EU beer output significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels. This prolonged slump is attributed to a confluence of factors including rising inflation, increased operational costs, global supply chain disruptions, and climate pressures impacting raw materials.

Brewers are calling for increased stability and support from policymakers, citing a loss of consumer confidence that has reshaped spending patterns. The shift from on-trade venues like pubs and restaurants to off-trade consumption has accelerated, with on-trade now representing only about a quarter of all beer consumed. This economic pressure has led to a plateau in the number of breweries across the EU.