Press Release

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) released the Beer Purchasers’ Index (BPI) for July 2024.

The July BPI shows an increase in year-over-year beer ordering volumes for the fifth straight month — the first such streak since 2021.

The BPI reading of 59 marked the fifth consecutive month in expansion territory (50+) and the highest July reading since 2021. Coupled with an At-Risk Inventory reading of 44 (the ninth straight month under 50), these measures reflect a continued positive purchasing outlook for the beer industry.

Six out of seven measured segments saw increased year-over-year ordering. Segment growth was led by Below Premium with a substantial 23-point jump to 62, its highest reading since May 2020. Premium Lights (63 reading) reached the 60s for only the second time since 2021.

Looking across the segments for July:

• The index for imports continues to point to expanding volumes with a July 2024 reading of 73, three points higher than July 2023 reading of 70.
• The craft index at 30 for July 2024 continues to signal contraction in this segment and is nine points lower than the July 2023 reading at 39.
• The premium lights index rose 63 for July 2024, nine points higher than July 2023 reading at 54.
• The premium regular index rose to 58 for July 2024, eight points higher the July 2023 reading at 50.
• The below premium segment for July 2024 at 62 is 23 points higher than July 2023 reading of 39.
• The FMB/seltzer reading for July 2024 at 39 is nine points higher than the July 2023 reading at 30.
• Finally, the cider segment posted a July 2024 reading at 36 compared to 32 for July 2023.

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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.