Beer, production and consumption in Europe down for the fifth year

European brewers face a challenging environment: beer consumption in pubs, bars and restaurants, which once accounted for one third of all beer consumed in Europe, has fallen to about one quarter. Although smaller in volume than retail, beer sold in pubs and restaurants generates most of the sector's added value and supports hundreds of thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises and jobs. A weakened catering sector has an impact on the entire beer supply chain, from farmers to festivals and tourism.

After years of steady growth, the number of active breweries in the EU has also stabilised at around 9,700, signalling a slowdown in the dynamism that characterised the last decade. For Christian Weber, president of The Brewers of Europe, the crisis reflects more than a temporary downturn: 'Consumers,' he says, 'have lost confidence and are spending less. Breweries are facing rising costs, stricter regulations and increasing pressure throughout the supply chain. We remain resilient and optimistic by nature, but we need more stability and support in order to continue to believe in a bright future'.

For Julia Leferman, general secretary of The Brewers of Europe, 'breweries are committed to sustainability and to defending the cultural value of beer. But now is the time for clear support, not disproportionate or counterproductive regulation. Our sector can contribute to Europe's competitiveness and cultural vibrancy if it is given the stability it needs to invest, innovate and grow'.