Research Group: Craft Beer Sales To Triple By 2017

CHICAGO (PRNewswire) — While the economic downturn has affected consumer spending across many sectors, craft and craft-style beers are defying recessionary trends with an impressive upward trajectory, according to the latest research by market research firm Mintel.

 Mintel’s research shows that sales of craft beer nearly doubled between 2007 and 2012, increasing from $5.7 billion in 2007 to $12 billion in 2012. The trend is expected to continue through 2017, with Mintel forecasting the segment to grow to $18 billion.