Following a decade-long period marked by exponential growth, Australia’s craft beer sector finds itself navigating through challenging waters.
What once began as a humble endeavor has blossomed into a thriving industry, boasting over 600 independent or craft brewers dispersed throughout cities and towns across the nation.
However, recent times have ushered in a series of hurdles for these brewers. Escalating operational costs, market saturation, and the economic strain induced by a cost of living crisis have forced many to shutter their operations or succumb to acquisition by larger entities. Compounding these challenges is the formidable influence wielded by major supermarket chains, exerting significant pressure on smaller players within the craft beer landscape.