As the nation’s largest industry gathering for beverage alcohol producers, the Craft Brewers Conference® & BrewExpo America® (CBC) offered an invaluable opportunity for professionals to connect in person, share insights, and explore cutting-edge innovations and products, covering every step of the brewing journey from grain to glass.
Key takeaways from the nation’s largest annual gathering for beverage alcohol professionals included:
Ales and Athleticism on Display
The conference kicked off—pun definitely intended—at Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts. Attendees enjoyed music from BMI country artist Preston James, and many took to the turf to kick some impressive field goals. Kudos to everyone who lined up for a shot at glory!
Spotting Opportunity in a Changing Market
During the first general session, JC and Esther Tetreault, founders of Massachusetts-based Trillium Brewing Company, delivered the keynote address. Emphasizing that there is no right way for success, they recounted Trillium’s journey from a tiny “shoebox” brewery in Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood to a regional hospitality powerhouse—with three locations across Boston, a production headquarters and flagship taproom in Canton, and a farm in North Stonington, Connecticut.
On day two, Bart Watson, Brewers Association president and CEO, reprised his role as chief economist to deliver the annual state of the craft beer industry address and offer insights and opportunities ahead. Perhaps most importantly, he attempted to provide some context to a common question they’ve been fielding from members: “When are we going to get through this?”
Despite the historical decline, “it’s not all bad news,” Bart said, highlighting that 43% of breweries grew last year, and when you look at breweries “more holistically,” and think about them as “total beverage companies,” you see better trends. Additional takeaways from Bart’s presentation:
- Breweries expanding beyond beer are growing. Breweries that diversify their offerings beyond traditional beer are seeing more positive trends. Those producing beyond beer experienced a median growth of +1.1%, compared to a -6.5% median decline for breweries overall.
- Craft beer has the flavor edge. “I firmly believe that craft beer offers the brands and flavors needed to thrive in today’s beverage alcohol market—one that is driven by variety and bold flavor,” said Bart.
- Overcoming misconceptions about craft. The key challenge is breaking the perception that craft beer is only about hoppy, bitter styles. “I know the incredible range of flavors we’re creating—even just within beer. The sour, fruity, tart, and juicy are the styles that can connect us to the next generation of drinkers. Maybe that’s where they stop. Or maybe that’s their entry point into brown ales, English milds, and the full glory of malt. But we won’t know until we get them through that first door.”
- A resilient industry with a long view. Despite structural challenges, Bart remains optimistic: “Yes, the long-term picture has its concerns, but there are still bright spots.” For those aiming to build a business for the long haul, he offers this reminder: “The pioneering craft brewers before us weathered equally tough times. They found their way forward through innovation, determination, and hard work—and we can too.”
Education and Resources for Beer & Beyond
Conference attendees engaged in 12 specialized educational tracks, gaining insights into successfully running a total beverage and hospitality business. Industry experts in distilling and cider-making shared their experiences and guidance with brewers interested in expanding their portfolios beyond beer, offering valuable perspectives on diversification and innovation.
They also explored BrewExpo America, the premier trade show for beverage alcohol producers, which featured more than 550 exhibitors.
Beyond the conference sessions, CBC week in Indianapolis was packed with 40+ unforgettable offsite events hosted by local breweries, partners, and industry organizations. From tap takeovers and beer-pairing dinners to karaoke nights and disc golf tourneys, these events were where new connections formed, collaborations were born, and great stories started.
Honoring Excellence in the Brewing Community
Since 1987, the Brewers Association has recognized individuals and organizations that have made a lasting impact on the craft beer industry. This year’s recipients of the Industry Awards are:
- Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Craft Brewing: Ron Jeffries (in memoriam), Founder, Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales (Dexter, Mich.)
- Brewers Association Recognition Award: The NC Beer Community
- F.X. Matt Defense of the Industry Award: Ted Zeller, Norris-McLaughlin, and the Brewers of Pennsylvania
- Brewers Association Mentor of the Year Award: Shawn Mullen, Stone Brewing Company
World Beer Cup 2025 Crowns Global Brewing Excellence
Winners of the world’s most prestigious professional beer and cider competition were announced during a closing ceremony on the final day of CBC. The event drew global attention as it celebrated the best in brewing and cider-making worldwide.
Throughout 14 judging sessions across seven days, a panel of 265 expert judges from 37 countries evaluated an impressive 8,375 entries submitted by 1,761 breweries and cideries representing 49 countries. In total, 349 awards were granted, highlighting the breadth of talent and innovation shaping today’s beverage industry. From classic lagers to experimental sours and world-class ciders, this year’s winners reflect the growing sophistication and creative range of producers worldwide—proving that the art and science of brewing continues to evolve in exciting and inspiring ways. View the complete list of World Beer Cup winners.
Brewery registration for the 2026 World Beer Cup will open in November 2025, and the awards will be presented on April 23, 2026, at the Craft Brewers Conference in Philadelphia.
Save the Date for Philadelphia
The 2026 edition of CBC and the World Beer Cup® competition award ceremony will be held April 20-23, 2026, in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
P.S. We’d love your feedback on your time in Indianapolis. Please take a few minutes to take our attendee survey.
