Press Release

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) released the Beer Purchasers’ Index (BPI) for February 2025.

After an encouraging start to the year, America’s beer distributors reported a decline in their purchasing outlook during February. Overall BPI fell to 35 (a 14-point year-over-year shift) while the at-risk inventory measure rose to 53.

Two segments recorded higher readings relative to February 2024: FMB/Seltzer (+8) and Below Premium (+2), which recorded its second-highest February reading to date. The Imports segment marked its 57th straight month in expansionary (>50) territory.

Looking across the segments for February:

• The index for imports continues to point to expanding volumes with a February 2025 reading of 55; however, that is 13-points lower than the February 2024 reading of 68.
• The craft index of 17 for February 2025 continues to signal contraction in this segment and is five-points lower than the February 2024 reading of 22.
• The premium lights index fell to 41 for February 2025, 11-points lower than the February 2024 reading of 52.
• The premium regular index fell to 36 for February 2025, 12-points lower than the February 2024 reading of 48.
• The below premium segment reading for February 2025 (43) is two-points higher than the February 2024 reading of 41; one of two segments to see year-over year increases in their readings.
• The FMB/seltzer reading for February 2025 of 36 is eight-points higher than the February 2024 reading of 28; one of two segments to see year-over year increases in their readings.
• Finally, the cider segment recorded a February 2025 reading of 25 compared to 30 for February 2024.

###

The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) represents America’s 3,000 independent beer distributors who service every state, congressional district and media market across the country. Licensed at the federal and state levels, beer distributors get bottles, cans, cases and kegs from a brewer or importer to stores, restaurants and other licensed retail accounts through a transparent and accountable regulatory system. Distributors build brands of all sizes – from familiar domestic beers to new startup labels and imports from around the world – and generate enormous consumer choice while supporting more than 140,000 quality jobs in their home communities. Beer distributors work locally to keep communities safe by sponsoring programs to promote responsible consumption, combat drunk driving and reduce underage drinking.