A growing number of craft beer enthusiasts want the ability to have their favorite brews shipped directly to their homes, but restrictive state laws continue to limit access, according to a new report.
On March 12, Sovos ShipCompliant, a company specializing in Direct-to-Consumer (DtC) shipping compliance, and the Brewers Association, a national trade organization representing U.S. craft brewers, released their latest Direct-to-Consumer Beer Shipping Report. The study, which combines consumer survey data with economic analysis, highlights increasing demand for beer delivery and the regulatory barriers preventing wider adoption.
Strong Consumer Interest in Beer Shipping
The report found that 83% of craft beer drinkers support DtC shipping, a trend that accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional key findings from the Sovos ShipCompliant/Harris Poll consumer survey include:
81% of craft beer drinkers have tried a beer while traveling that they wish they could purchase at home but is unavailable in their area.
85% of respondents said that access to DtC beer shipping would make them more likely to try beer from out-of-state breweries, up from 77% in 2022.
72% of craft beer drinkers indicated they would spend at least $50 per month on DtC beer purchases, while 51% said they would spend $100 or more per month.
86% of respondents said they would have a more positive perception of breweries that offer DtC shipping, and 85% would be likely to recommend those breweries to others.
88% of consumers believe there should be greater legal access to DtC beer shipping.
Despite strong consumer support, as of March 2023, only 11 states and Washington, D.C., permit DtC beer shipping, creating a significant gap between demand and legal availability.
Calls for Expanding Direct Beer Sales
Industry experts argue that expanding DtC beer shipping could benefit both breweries and consumers while complementing the existing three-tier distribution system.
“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,” said Alex Koral, regulatory general counsel at Sovos ShipCompliant. “There is significant opportunity for a larger, well-regulated direct-to-consumer shipping channel that helps craft brewers, their business partners, and consumers alike.”
Bart Watson, President & CEO of the Brewers Association, echoed that sentiment, citing the success of the wine industry’s DtC model.
“The experience from the wine industry and the limited states that currently allow DtC beer shipping underline the success of this model in beverage alcohol,” Watson said. “The realities of tightening distribution opportunities make direct shipping a sensible route to market for many American small breweries.”
As consumer demand for DtC beer sales continues to rise, industry advocates hope lawmakers will reconsider current regulations to allow greater access to direct beer shipments across the country.
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