Ireland: Craft beer consumption up 13.5% since 2017

A new report has found that the consumption of Irish craft beer has risen by 13.5%, since 2017, Hospitality Ireland reported on September 11.

The Craft Beer and Cider Report was completed by Bernard Feeney on behalf of Bord Bia in collaboration with Drinks Ireland and the Independent Craft Brewers of Ireland (ICBI).

The report shows there was an increase in market share of the 79 independent microbreweries that are currently in operation in the Republic of Ireland, as consumption of craft beer rose from 2.9% in 2017 to 3.4% in 2022.

Meanwhile, there are currently 12 craft cider producers in Ireland, and craft cider production accounts for 2.2% of total domestic cider consumption.

Irish cider producers generated over 50% of sales, within 50 kilometres of the producers’ premises.

On average 52.9% of apples and pears used in craft products are sourced from the producers’ own orchard.

The Craft Beer and Cider Report shows that the export market performance has almost doubled since 2017.

Half of microbrewers do not currently export, but two-thirds of these intend to export in the next three years.

It was reported that 60,300 hectolitres of craft beer were exported in 2022, compared with 30,500 hectolitres in 2017.

France, Italy and the UK were identified as the most high-potential markets.

“It’s reassuring that the craft beer market is growing albeit at a low rate," said James Dunne, board director at Independent Craft Brewers of Ireland and operations director at Galway Bay Brewery.

"It’s also reassuring that we see that exports are growing strongly, and that’s a key focus for Irish craft beer companies."

"In particular, the focus on the green economy and sustainability is always key for exports.”

11 September, 2023