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German Beer Sales Post Worst Decline in 75 Years as Veltins Ekes Out Growth

A shift toward non‑alcoholic beer is setting the stage for industry consolidation.

Overview

  • Veltins reported 2025 volume up 0.3% to about 3.37 million hectoliters and revenue up 0.4% to €461 million, contrasting with the national downturn.
  • Company analysis estimates Germany’s beer market shrank by more than six percent in 2025, a loss of roughly 5 million hectoliters and the steepest annual drop in decades.
  • Sales fell across channels with retail down about 4% (2.7 million hl), gastronomy down about 8% (1.3 million hl) and exports down about 7% (1 million hl).
  • Veltins’ mix shifted as its Pils fell 1.8% while its Hellbier Pülleken rose 13.6% and non‑alcoholic products grew by roughly 10%, with an alcohol‑free Hellbier announced.
  • Brewers introduced new non‑alcoholic variants and price increases from autumn 2025 are largely in place, and Veltins’ chief warns some breweries and sites may not survive required investments.