The sky is not falling. There is reason to be optimistic. Check these stats courtesy of Draft Magazine
~ The number of U.S. breweries is the highest in 100 years because of small and independent craft brewers.
~ America’s small and independent craft brewers are still growing despite many challenges and are continuing to provide jobs to the U.S. economy.
~ Dollar growth from craft brewers during the first half of 2009 increased 9 percent, down from 11 percent growth during the same period in 2008.
~ Volume of craft brewed beer sold grew 5 percent for the first six months in 2009, compared to 6.5 percent growth in the first half of 2008.