Beer drinking in Germany is declining, but alcohol-free varieties are becoming more popular than ever. Figures from the federal statistics office show sales of alcohol-free beer have risen by 109 percent since 2013. Meanwhile, overall beer sales are now at their lowest level in more than 30 years.
For the first time, total sales fell below four billion liters in a six-month period. Between January and June 2025, breweries sold about 3.9 billion liters. That equals a drop of 6.3 percent, or 262 million liters, compared with the same period in 2024.
breweries look for new appeal
Erdinger brewery near Munich has been operating since the 1880s. Chief executive Stefan Kreisz sees clear changes in drinking habits. A quarter of the company’s production is now alcohol-free.
He stresses that brewers must adapt to younger generations. “You need to understand how they meet and how they celebrate. No algorithm tells you to drink beer,” he says.
Kreisz remains confident about the resilience of German beer culture. Erdinger promotes alcohol-free beer at sporting events, presenting it as a healthier alternative to energy drinks.
young drinkers shift toward health
At Café Kosmos in Munich, barman Louis von Tucher observes a more health-conscious crowd. “In the 2000s, people were offended if you suggested water,” he recalls. “Now people are more aware of their drinking. They still enjoy alcohol but more carefully, adding alcohol-free choices in between.”
Still, he highlights the strength of traditional beer. “It’s only a slight shift,” von Tucher explains. “We sell 150 to 500 liters of normal beer per night, but only about 20 liters of alcohol-free. The gap is huge.”
festivals keep beer culture thriving
At Bamberg’s Sandkerwa folk festival, beer traditions remain strong. For five days, the medieval streets fill with music, food stalls and countless beer stands serving eager visitors.
In the old town, Pascal enjoys a beer with a friend. “Beer is very important here. We have many breweries. People come for the beer and the fest. I don’t think people here drink less than before,” he says.
Magdalena, a student, agrees while pointing at the crowd outside a beer garden. “Everyone holds a glass of beer. It’s a big part of life here, even if unhealthy. We all know that,” she admits. “In my generation, people drink less daily, but it’s still Germany, and it’s still Bavaria.”
