After experiencing significant growth for years, the craft beer industry is now facing a slowdown. Beer sales are declining, and the number of breweries in Canada is starting to decrease due to various factors such as cost pressures and changing consumer preferences.
Ben Leon, co-founder and CEO of Dandy Brewing in Calgary, acknowledged the need for a correction in the industry after witnessing the rapid expansion of small breweries. While the hype around craft beer in the 2010s has subsided, some businesses are still thriving by diversifying their offerings and redefining the brewery experience.
In 2014, Leon launched his brewery in a small warehouse in Calgary, capitalizing on the growing demand for craft beer among millennials and supportive regulations in Alberta. The trend of brewery openings was widespread across Canada during the same period, with taprooms becoming popular destinations for customers and economic stimulants for local communities.
Despite the boom in craft beer during the late 2010s, the industry has started to contract recently. Data from beer writer and analyst Jason Foster indicates a decline in the number of breweries in Canada, with a 2.9% decrease in 2025. Beer sales have also been dwindling, affecting both craft and larger beer producers.
Evil Corporation Brewing, a Calgary-based brewery, faced challenges during the pandemic and ultimately closed its doors in 2025 due to changing consumer preferences and financial struggles. The shift in drinking habits, particularly among young people and new Canadians, has put pressure on the beer industry as a whole.
While some breweries have closed as the industry matures, others are adapting to succeed in the evolving market. Successful taprooms are now offering a wider range of food options, hosting events, and introducing new beverage choices like seltzers and non-alcoholic drinks. Despite the changes, optimism remains within the craft beer community, with businesses like Dandy Brewing evolving to meet the shifting demands of consumers.