PORTLAND, Ore. (April 7, 2010) – Oregon breweries reached a landmark in 2009, producing more than one million barrels, or roughly 260 million pints of beer. According to figures released today by the Oregon Brewers Guild, Oregon’s breweries crafted 1,050,000 barrels of beer, which represents an increase in production of 15.2 percent over 2008.
“The brewing industry is a major contributor to Oregon’s economy and a big supporter of our communities,” said Brian Butenschoen, Executive Director of the Oregon Brewers Guild. “In the last year alone our 74 brewing companies donated product and money equal to more than $1.25 million to local non-profits.”
Last year was a year filled with milestones for the industry – the first time craft beer production topped one million barrels, the first time Oregon’s brewers took home a record 24 medals at the Great American Beer Festival, the first time Oregon became home to more than 100 breweries and the successful launch of the first Zwickelmania brewery open house event. Oregon continues to take a leadership role in the national craft brewing scene as well, ranking within the top five for number of breweries, breweries per capita, total craft beer production and total craft beer consumption.
Oregon beer produced and consumed in state grew 7.8 percent by volume in 2009 to 358,000 barrels, outpacing the national craft beer growth rate of 7.2 percent by volume. Oregon’s breweries made 12.4 percent of the 2.894 million barrels of all beer – both bottled and draft – consumed in the state during 2009. For draft beer, that percentage is even higher, with Oregon breweries producing an estimated 38 percent of all draft beer consumed in the state.
Portland, Oregon currently has 32 breweries within its city limits, more than any other city in the world. The state of Oregon has 74 brewing companies operating 102 brewing facilities. Oregon’s brewing companies employed more than 4,700 people in 2009, with more than 400 people working in beer production. Retail sales of Oregon made beer sold in the state totaled approximately $230 million in 2009.
The Oregon Brewers Guild is Oregon’s non-profit trade association for the state’s independent breweries. The Guild, which receives no state funding, comprises 65 brewing companies, 32 associate or supplier members and more than 2,725 enthusiast members or S.N.O.B.s (Supporters of Native Oregon Beer). For more information, see www.oregonbeer.org.
