The Beer Purchasers’ Index (BPI) for June 2019 took a downturn after posting positive results for the first five months of 2019. The total beer index fell from 62 in June 2018 to 48 in June 2019. This marks the lowest June reading since tracking began in 2015.
The index, released each month by the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), surveys beer distributors’ purchases across different segments and compares them to previous years. A reading greater than 50 indicates the segment is expanding, while a reading below 50 indicates the segment is contracting. June’s At Risk Inventory reading at 49 is the category’s first reading below 50 this year.
Looking across the segments:
- The index for imports took a step back but remained in expansion territory in June with an index reading of 54 compared to the June 2018 reading of 72.
- The craft index at 50 is full 10 points below the June 2018 reading of 60.
- Premium lights, premium regulars and below premiums all saw declines in index readings relative to last year. All three segments continue to struggle with index readings below 50.
- The flavored malt beverage/progressive adult beverage (FMB/PAB) segment was the only category that saw an increase over 2018, posting an index reading of 68 this June compared to 60 in June 2018.
- The cider segment fell to 43 from 46.
The July 2019 BPI survey will run from July 9 through July 19. Results will be released to participating distributors on July 22.
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