Beer market in France - statistics & facts
Renowned for its wine, France is now experiencing a beer renaissance, driven by innovation and a passion for artisanal brewing. The global trend toward craft beer has found fertile ground in the country’s rich agricultural traditions, with France leveraging its world-class barley and malt production to craft unique flavors. This shift marks a cultural evolution, blending heritage with modern tastes.
While beer consumption in France still trails behind that of wine, the growing craft beer movement and the country’s strong position in malt export suggest a bright future for the beer industry. France may soon become a stronger player on the global beer stage, embracing its evolving beer culture as more consumers opt for variety and quality.
The growth of the beer industry in France
Since 2010, the number of breweries in France has surged, with craft beer at the forefront of this boom. While beer consumption still lags behind neighboring European countries, France’s beer industry reached over 3 billion euros in production in 2017, marking a significant milestone. The French beer market is diverse, with major international brewers like Ab InBev dominating the landscape. However, France is also a leader in exporting malt, a key ingredient in beer production, due to its strong barley farming sector. The increasing interest in beer, particularly among younger generations, has contributed to this rapid expansion.The rise of craft beer
Craft beer, characterized by smaller production batches and unique flavors, has captured the attention of many French consumers. This segment of the market focuses on top fermentation beers, such as ales, stouts, porters, and Trappists, which are produced by local microbreweries. These beers are known for their higher quality and artisanal touch, which contrasts with mass-produced brews. The craft beer movement has created a thriving community of beer enthusiasts, and its influence is growing, with more French people opting for locally produced, innovative options rather than traditional industrial beers.While beer consumption in France still trails behind that of wine, the growing craft beer movement and the country’s strong position in malt export suggest a bright future for the beer industry. France may soon become a stronger player on the global beer stage, embracing its evolving beer culture as more consumers opt for variety and quality.
