Beer Industry in Expansion Territory: NBWA Beer Purchasers' Index

For the fifth consecutive month, the National Beer Wholesalers Association's Beer Purchasers' Index is in positive territory with a combined score of 51. Readings about 50 are considered to signal expansion.

All segments recorded year-over-year improvements, led by FMB/seltzer (+16) and Premium Lights (+14). Premium Lights crossed the 50 benchmark for just the third time in the last two years.

Looking across the segments for July:

• The FMB/seltzer index at 55 is 16 points higher than July 2025 and eight points higher than June 2026.
• The below premium index at 55 is seven points higher than July 2025 and five points higher than June 2026.
• The premium lights index at 52 is 14 points higher than July 2025 and four points higher than June 2026.
• The imports index at 51 is one point higher than July 2025 but 10 points lower than June 2026.
• The cider segment at 48 is 10 points higher than July 2025 but two points lower than June 2026. 
• The premium regular index at 42 is one point higher than July 2025 and even with June 2026.
• The craft index at 26 is one point higher than July 2025 and five points higher than June 2026