Beer production on the rise

Wiki Spanish Food Editorial Team

Beer production in Spain amounted to 38.4 million hectoliters in 2018, up 2.2% in year-on-year terms, maintaining the moderately upward trend for the fifth year in a row. The main factors driving this growth have been exports, which increased again by almost 3%, boosted by tourism which, in 2018, set a new record in Spain (82.8 million).

This data is included in the 2018 socio-economic report for the beer industry, drafted by Cerveceros de España and presented today at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food before acting minister, Luis Planas Puchades; the general director of Cerveceros de España, Jacobo Olalla Marañón, and general secretary of Hostelería de España, Emilio Gallego.

Consumption exceeded 40 million hectoliters in 2018, for the first time ever, reflecting growth of 1.5% year-on-year, in line with the upward trend. In addition to tourism, an additional boost came from the hospitality industry, where revenues increased by 3.4% compared with 2017, and economic and fiscal stability have helped improve consumer confidence. 

Sales performed in line with consumption, and amounted to 36.2 million hectoliters, 1.4% more than the previous year. After four years of growth of around 2 to 3% in 2018, the positive trend has continued, albeit more moderately. 

Beer consumption once again has positioned Spain as a moderate consumer in line with the Mediterranean Diet and always accompanied by food and in a social context. "The fact that 8 out of every 10 adults, regardless of gender or social class, has consumed beer during the year make this an inclusive beverage," said Olalla Marañón.