More than one million homebrewers in the US brew two million barrels annually, which represents a small but sizeable portion (1%) of total US production, according to a survey by The American Homebrewers Association (AHA).
The not-for-profit trade association, serving as a resource and community for homebrewers, released results of a first-ever nationwide homebrewer survey, which was completed by more than 18,000 homebrewers via an online survey from 30 July to 3 September 2013.
Of the respondents, 65% were members of the AHA, and 35% were unaffiliated homebrewers.
Two-thirds of the estimated 1.2 million homebrewers in the US began brewing in 2005 or later, the survey found.
Almost 60% of homebrewers are falling between 30 and 49 years old. West with 31% homebrewers has emerged as top location, followed by the South (26%), Midwest (23%) and Northeast (17%).
In terms of brew production, around 60% of homebrewers primarily brew beer at home, compared to wine, mead or cider.
AHA members and people affiliated with the AHA on average brewed nearly 15% more batches and nearly 30% more volume than homebrewers who were not affiliated with the AHA.
The survey also found that almost 95% homebrewers shop in two local homebrew stores eight or nine times a year, while 80% also shop in three online stores five times a year.
On average, homebrewers spend about $460 on general supplies and ingredients, and $330 on major equipment.
AHA director Gary Glass said: "From the amount of money spent on supplies to the sheer number of homebrewers, it's clear this is a growing trend and people are incredibly interested in learning about and making their own brews at home."
Image: Around 60% of homebrewers primarily brew beer at home. Photo courtesy of American Homebrewers Association.
