Some of Washington's top craft brewers saw sales slip in 2024

Axios

7 days ago

Four of Washington state's 10 largest craft breweries reported falling sales in 2024, with another stuck at zero growth, according to Brewers Association data.
Why it matters: Even Washington's storied craft beer industry is struggling with shifting drinking habits, rising costs and crowded competition, echoing national challenges.
By the numbers: Silver City Brewery in Bremerton reported a 21% drop in sales last year, the largest decline among Washington's top 10 craft brewers.
Ackley Brands, which bought Redmond-based Mac & Jack's Brewing Co. in 2023, saw a 12% decline.
Bale Breaker Brewing Co. in Yakima had a 5% drop in sales, while Iron Horse Brewery in Ellensburg saw a 9% drop.
Spokane's No-Li Brewhouse posted 0% growth.
Yes, but: It wasn't all gloomy news for big local brewers.
Seattle's Georgetown Brewing Co. and Fremont Brewing saw their sales climb.
So did Stoup Brewing, which has locations in Seattle and Kenmore, and Black Raven Brewing Co., which is based on the Eastside.
Leavenworth's Icicle Brewing Co. saw the biggest increase: 28%.
What they're saying: Increased demand for nonalcoholic options and the proliferation of ready-to-drink cocktails are contributing to "challenging times" for local breweries in Washington and elsewhere, Daniel Olson, executive director of the Washington Brewers Guild, told Axios.
That said, "we're faring better than most," Olson said.
"We're seeing some really good breweries that are making some really good beer, and consumers are recognizing that," he said.
State of play: More craft breweries closed than opened in Washington in 2024, he said, mirroring a national trend.
Between the lines: Many brewers are adding nonalcoholic options and other products like hard ciders to broaden their appeal, Olson said.
Case in point: Fremont Brewing introduced a nonalcoholic IPA in 2023, while Georgetown Brewing bought Timber City Ginger Beer late last year.
What we're watching: In a December 2024 report, Bart Watson of the Brewers Association wrote that brewers were bracing for another challenging year in 2025, due in part to market pressures and potential tariff impacts.