Black-owned breweries show resilience amid hurdles, study shows

According to the National Black Brewers Association’s (NB2A) 2024 State of Black Brewers report, Black-owned breweries remain significantly underrepresented in the U.S. brewing landscape. Out of 9,761 total breweries in the country, only 86 are Black-owned, comprising less than 1% of all U.S. breweries. Even more notable, just 12 Black-owned breweries operate their own production facilities, representing a mere 0.01% of breweries nationwide.

Despite these low numbers, Black-owned breweries are showing signs of growth and resilience. In 2023, they collectively produced an estimated 383,790 barrels, with production growing 19% faster than the overall craft beer industry trend. Notably, 70% of Black-owned breweries independently produced less than 1,000 barrels in 2023, but still grew 9% faster than similarly-sized breweries across the U.S.

However, Black brewers face numerous challenges. Access to capital remains a significant hurdle, with many struggling to secure loans and investments crucial for starting and expanding their businesses. Industry connections can be challenging to establish, as the brewing world is often perceived as insular. Market access presents another obstacle, with Black-owned breweries finding it challenging to secure shelf space in stores and taps in bars due to longstanding relationships and potential biases within distribution networks.

The NB2A report also highlights a lack of visibility and representation of Black brewers in media and industry events, which can hinder their ability to reach a broader audience. Additionally, there is a notable absence of craft beer venues in many Black communities, and most Black adults have not been exposed to or marketed craft beer, resulting in a smaller Black consumer base for these products.

The NB2A was formed in 2022 as a membership-based non-profit organization to address these issues. Over the past year, the association has made strides in supporting the Black brewing community. It has grown its membership to over 300, including brewers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts. The NB2A has also successfully advocated for “Black Brewer’s Day” in 17 jurisdictions and partnered with major beer festivals and media outlets to increase visibility for Black brewers.

HYFIN has brought attention to Black brewers and their craft in Milwaukee with our Brown, Black & Brews event, which will return in 2025. Our involvement has helped shine a spotlight on the unique contributions and challenges Black-owned breweries face, further amplifying the message of the NB2A.

The association sees potential for growth in marketing craft beer to Black consumers. According to the report, approximately 9.3 million Black individuals and 16 million people of color consume alcohol but do not currently drink beer. If this audience were to adopt beer consumption at average rates, it could represent an additional 18-32 million barrels of beer annually, with an estimated 2.1 million potentially being craft beer.

As the craft beer industry continues to evolve, the NB2A aims to increase the number of African Americans in the brewing industry at all levels, especially in ownership and brewmaster roles. The association is working to exercise political influence, foster an understanding of the history of African American brewing in the United States, and promote the Black brewing community as a unique entity within the larger beer industry.