Just as craft beer continues to expand, the Craft Brewers Conference (CBC) & BrewExpo America has grown. Organized by the Brewers Association (BA), a non-profit trade organization based in Boulder, Colo., the CBC attracted 6,400 brewing professionals and approximately 440 exhibitors from March 26 to 29, in Washington, D.C.
In 2012, the total U.S. beer market grew by 1 percent; however, craft beer grew 15 percent in volume and 17 percent in dollar sales, representing a total barrel increase of nearly 1.8 million, according to preliminary data from the Brewers Association, Boulder, Colo.
After enduring contraction the last few years, the overall beer market is on the uptick, says Dan Wandel, senior vice president of beverage alcohol client insights for Chicago-based SymphonyIRI Group.
With more than 4,500 attendees from 35 countries, the Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America, hosted by the Brewers Association, Boulder, Colo., May 2-5 in San Diego, was a testament to the growth in the industry. Setting the tone for the event, Brewers Association President Charlie Papazian addressed any doubts about the industry’s potential, saying, “We are not in a bubble, we are knee-deep in foam — and the foam is still rising.”
The Brewers Association, Boulder, Colo., announced the formation of the Senate Small Brewers Caucus by Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). The senators sent a letter to colleagues sharing, “In recent years, the more than 1,700 craft brewers all across America have met growing consumer demand for their products by brewing flavorful and innovative beers, which they encourage Americans to enjoy in a responsible manner.
The Brewers Association hosted Savor: An American Craft Beer & Food Experience this weekend in Washington, D.C. Part of Savor Beer Week D.C., the event featured craft brewers from across the Untied States.