As beer sales fall, young Germans develop taste for alcohol-free lager

Beer sales in Germany have hit a 30-year low, leading to a surge in the popularity of non-alcoholic lagers. According to Destatis, non-alcoholic beer sales have spiked by 109% since 2013, while overall beer consumption has dropped below 4 billion liters in a half-year period for the first time. This trend is reflected at traditional breweries like Erdinger, where a quarter of production is now alcohol-free to cater to changing drinking habits, especially among young consumers seeking healthier alternatives. Bars and cafes also report a shift towards more health-conscious choices, with non-alcoholic beers gaining traction among customers looking to consume alcohol more consciously.