The Current State Of Homebrewing

Here's an AI summary of the homebrewing hobby in 2025:

Homebrewing is in a state of flux: experiencing a post-COVID slump with declining membership/shops, yet still fueled by creativity, the rise of easy-to-use kits, and the enduring appeal of craft beer, with many new brewers entering via simpler methods like extract brewing, while online resources replace traditional stores for many. The hobby faces challenges from high ingredient costs and competition from commercial craft beer but offers sustainability and unique flavor exploration, with current efforts focused on reigniting enthusiasm and simplifying entry for newcomers. 

Key Trends & Challenges

• Membership Decline: The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has seen a drop in paid members, and national competitions are receiving fewer entries, notes this Reddit thread and this YouTube video.

• Shop Closures: Many local homebrew shops (LHBS) have closed, mirroring broader retail trends and impacting community hubs, reports The Washington Post.

• COVID-19 Boost & Bust: Homebrewing saw a surge during the pandemic, but a subsequent decline has highlighted long-term shifts, says this Reddit thread.

• Cost & Complexity Barriers: High ingredient costs (especially hops/yeast) and the perception that brewing is too complex or time-consuming deter new brewers, according to this Reddit thread and Brülosophy. 

Shifting Landscape

• Online Dominance: Digital platforms and YouTube have become primary sources for information, reducing reliance on physical stores, says this YouTube video.

• Simpler Entry Points: New brewers are often drawn in by simpler extract kits or all-in-one systems, rather than complex all-grain setups, notes Brülosophy and this YouTube video.

• Creativity & Sustainability: The hobby thrives on creativity, allowing personal flavor experimentation and offering a sustainable, local alternative to commercial beer, says Birallee Brewing. 

The Future Outlook

• Reigniting Passion: The goal for the next decade is to rekindle enthusiasm by highlighting homebrewing's fun, social, and personal aspects, as suggested by this YouTube video.

• Community Focus: Despite challenges, many local groups and suppliers remain vibrant, emphasizing the strong community bond that keeps the hobby alive, say The Washington Post and Brülosophy.