Europe’s beer market continues to contract, with production, consumption and exports all declining for the fifth consecutive year, according to a new report.
The report highlights the “persistent challenges” facing the sector at EU-wide level.
It says on-trade beer consumption in pubs, cafés and restaurants — once representing a third of all beer consumed in Europe — has fallen to around a quarter.
Although smaller in volume than retail, beer sold in hospitality venues generates most of the sector’s added value and is said to support hundreds of thousands of SMEs and local jobs.
The report says a weakened hospitality sector “therefore impacts the entire beer value chain, from farmers to festivals and tourism”.
After years of steady growth, the number of active breweries in the EU has now also plateaued at around 9,700, signalling a slowdown in the brewing dynamism that defined the past decade.
The report is from The Brewers of Europe and was published on 4 December.
Christian Weber, President of The Brewers of Europe, warned that the downturn reflects more than a temporary dip: “Consumers have lost confidence and are spending less. Brewers are facing rising costs, tighter regulations and increasing pressure across the value chain. We remain resilient and optimistic by nature, but we need more stability and support to continue believing in a bright future.”
EU beer production has fallen from 367 million hectolitres in 2019 to 345 million in 2024, with early 2025 figures showing further tightening. Exports — once a buffer for domestic declines — have also slowed for a second year.
The report points to inflation, high input costs, global transport disruptions and climate-related pressures on raw materials as major contributors to the downturn. Low consumer confidence continues to reshape spending patterns, affecting products closely linked to social occasions and hospitality.
Despite these challenges, the sector continues to innovate. Non-alcohol beers remain the fastest-growing segment, expanding by 25% over five years and now representing 7.5% of EU beer consumption.
Julia Leferman, Secretary General of The Brewers of Europe, emphasised the importance of the right regulatory environment.
She said: “Brewers are committed to sustainability, moderation and cultural value. But this is a moment for clear support — not disproportionate or counterproductive regulation. Our sector can contribute to Europe’s competitiveness and cultural vibrancy if given the stability needed to invest, innovate and grow.”
The report was unveiled at this week’s 12th annual Beer Serves Europe event in Brussels, bringing together brewers, partners from across the supply chain, policymakers and guests from EU institutions and member states.
