A new Direct-to-Consumer Beer Shipping Report, conducted by Sovos ShipCompliant and the Brewers Association, says that most Americans want easier access to craft beer via direct-to-consumer (DtC) shipping. The report, based on a Harris Poll survey, reveals that 83% of regular craft beer drinkers and 64% of all legal-age Americans support updating current laws to make beer shipping legal in more states. Right now, only 12 states and Washington, D.C., allow DtC beer shipping — compared to 47 states and D.C. for wine. That, of course, makes no sense, so let’s see what folks think about it.
Beer shipping: A revenue stream held back by regulations
The surveyed have spoken: They want their favorite beers shipped straight to their doors. That data shows that 76% of regular craft beer drinkers would buy more beer if they could receive it through DtC shipping. Even more compelling, 86% would be more likely to try out-of-state craft beer if they could order it online and have it delivered. A little background on the surveyed.
This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Sovos ShipCompliant from January 7-9, 2025 among 2,021 U.S. adults ages 21 and older, among whom 632 drink craft beer at least once per month. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level.
Notably, the report also dismantles a common argument against DtC beer shipping — that it would hurt brick-and-mortar retail sales. The survey found that 95% of regular craft beer drinkers who purchase via DtC would still look for the same brand in retail stores, bars, and restaurants. Instead of replacing traditional distribution, DtC sales might complement it by introducing consumers to new breweries they wouldn’t otherwise access. There’s way more interesting insights in the study, ranging from state shipping breakdowns to recent regulatory trends. Read the report right here!
From the press release:
“Once again, majorities of regular craft beer drinkers and adult Americans alike have expressed their belief that current beer shipping laws need to be expanded. The takeaways remain clear: there is significant opportunity for a larger, well-regulated direct-to-consumer shipping channel that complements three-tier distribution, helps craft brewers and their business partners, and benefits consumers alike,” said Alex Koral, regulatory general counsel, Sovos ShipCompliant. “Breweries and beer drinkers are simply seeking the same access and opportunities as the wine industry, which has been successfully and responsibly shipping DtC for decades.”
If you don’t know, Sovos ShipCompliant provides wine, beer, and spirits suppliers with web-based software tools to ensure compliance with federal and state laws for direct and wholesale distribution. So, you can see their interest in the subject matter. Now enjoy an infographic.
Why can wine ship, but not beer? WTF?
The disparity between beer and wine shipping laws has long frustrated craft brewers and this website. The wine industry has legally and successfully shipped DtC for decades. The Brewers Association and Sovos ShipCompliant argue that beer producers deserve the same rights. As the craft beer market grows increasingly competitive, small brewers could use DtC sales as another lifeline to reach more customers, especially as wholesale and retail tiers continue consolidating. From the press release:
“Direct-to-consumer shipping is one opportunity to bridge that gap between consumer preferences and the realities of the distributed market. The fact is, with nearly 10,000 craft brewers in the United States, and more consolidation of the wholesale and retail tiers, craft brewers should have the same opportunities as other producers to explore other market access opportunities,” said Bart Watson, president & CEO, Brewers Association. “For many small and independent brewers, DtC shipping would be an opportunity—a new way to create and maintain relationships with customers, in much the same way that DtC wine shipping created opportunity for small wineries decades ago.”
What the data says about the craft beer market right now
Beyond DtC shipping, several recent reports offer deeper insight into the shifting craft beer landscape.
NBWA’s Beer Purchasers’ Index (BPI): A tough time for craft beer
The National Beer Wholesalers Association’s February 2025 BPI paints a bleak picture for craft beer distribution. The Beer Purchasers’ Index is a forward-looking indicator measuring expected demand from beer distributors — one month forward. The craft index for February sits at 17, far below the 50-point expansion threshold and down from 22 in February 2024. This means it’s tough selling on the shelf. Overall, the beer purchasing outlook also declined, with the total BPI at 35, signaling a contraction in demand. Meanwhile, imported beer remains strong, with its segment expanding for the 57th consecutive month.
CGA’s On-Premise Impact Report: Consumers want healthier and premium choices
Despite challenges in distribution, on-premise beer consumption remains steady. CGA’s On-Premise Impact Report highlights that:
- 75% of consumers dined out in January, and 50% visited bars for drinks.
- 25% are actively moderating alcohol intake.
- 20% are prioritizing premium drinks.
- Beer still accounts for 40.5% of all on-premise alcohol sales.
The takeaway? Consumers are still hitting bars and restaurants but are increasingly looking for low-ABV, non-alcoholic, and high-quality craft options. Craft breweries that lean into premium experiences, creative food pairings, and better-for-you beer innovations can still thrive in the on-premise sector.
USDA-NASS and HGA Data: The hop industry contracts
The 2024 USDA-NASS National Hop Report and Hop Growers of America (HGA) Statistical Packet (see both in detail here!) show a decline in hop production:
- Hop production dropped 16% to 87.1 million pounds.
- Harvested acreage fell 18% to 44,793 acres.
- Total hop production value declined by 21%.
- Popular aroma hop varieties like Citra and Mosaic saw acreage reductions.
For craft brewers, this means potential price fluctuations and a shift in hop availability. High-alpha and specialty hop varieties are gaining traction, while overproduction concerns are leading to reductions in some traditional aroma hops.
Escoffier’s Alcohol Trends Report: Beer faces competition from RTDs
Escoffier’s 2025 alcohol trends report underscores a growing challenge: beer consumption is declining. While beer once dominated alcohol preferences, its market share has fallen from 41% to 34%. Meanwhile, ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails are booming, with 89% of consumers preferring RTDs due to convenience. Craft breweries may need to expand into alternative beverages — like hard seltzers, canned cocktails, and non-alcoholic options — to stay competitive in a changing market.
The path forward for craft breweries
Data from these reports shows that craft breweries face both hurdles and opportunities. The demand for DtC beer shipping is overwhelming, but legal barriers remain. At the same time, craft beer faces distribution struggles, shifting consumer preferences, and hop supply challenges. However, there are clear ways forward:
- Advocate for beer DtC shipping reform.
- Lean into premium and health-conscious trends with low-ABV and non-alcoholic options.
- Enhance taproom experiences to capitalize on on-premise dining trends.
- Innovate beyond beer by experimenting with RTDs or beer-based cocktails.
The craft beer industry has always been about adaptation. The breweries that embrace change, leverage new sales channels, and listen to consumer trends will be the ones that thrive in 2025 and beyond.
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