Whether they are going out on the town with friends and family or sipping it at home, Americans enjoy their beer and wine. Over the years, the number of microbreweries and wineries in operation has increased. So, too, has the popularity of these beverages.

The Growth of Craftbeers

There are quite a few breweries in operation throughout the United States. It’s interesting to note, that 99% of these are small, independent operations. In addition to contract brewing companies, there are other market segments:

• Microbreweries: 2,937
• Brewpubs: 1,650
• Regional craft breweries: 178

Microbreweries, for example, produce fewer than 15,000 barrels, or 17,600 hectoliters, of beer every year. A significant portion of this beer is sold to stores, restaurants, pubs,