Colorado, Vermont Breweries Face Closures Amid Market Shift

The craft beer industry in Colorado and Vermont is facing significant challenges, with Colorado losing 44 breweries in 2024 and Vermont experiencing a slowdown in its once-booming beer scene. Colorado Brewers Guild Executive Director Shawnee Adelson highlighted inflation, supply-chain issues, and changing consumer preferences as contributing factors to the closures, particularly in the over-saturated Denver metro area. Meanwhile, Vermont breweries are adapting to the landscape, with some like Lost Nation Brewing making a comeback after a two-year hiatus, while others have closed, reflecting a national trend of more closures than openings. The Vermont Department of Taxes reported a decline in taxable malt beverage sales since 2019, indicating a broader issue affecting the craft beer market. New ventures, such as North Chair Brewing and The Tropic Brewing, are emerging with unique offerings, attempting to carve out niches despite the ongoing challenges. Overall, the craft beer sector is navigating a tumultuous era marked by competition and evolving consumer tastes.