Alcohol-Free Beer Gains Popularity in Germany

Germany’s beer market is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by changing consumer preferences and the evolving tastes of younger generations. While traditional beer consumption is declining, the demand for alcohol-free alternatives has surged, signalling a shift in the country’s long-standing beer culture. In the first half of 2025, German beer sales fell by 6.3%, amounting to a reduction of around 262 million litres and bringing total consumption to roughly 3.9 billion litres. This represents the steepest decline in the domestic beer market since 1993, excluding non-alcoholic products. Economic pressures, rising prices, and shifts in social habits, particularly among younger consumers,...