It's no secret that Chicagoans have an affinity for booze. The city's population of craft beer lovers fuel the local economy and is the reason for Chicago's new title as the nation's craft beer capital.
With over 167 local craft brands, there is a huge selection to choose from, so it can be tough for brands to stand out from the crowd. Driving sales and growing a passionate following has become increasingly difficult as more breweries open across Chicagoland.
In our Chicago Craft Beer Market Report we dove into local craft beer market share to discover the top Chicago brands of 2018. Last year, these local breweries had a tight grasp on the market and were the brands people ordered most when heading out on the town.
The Top 5 Most Popular Chicago Craft Brands of 2018
28.2% Revolution Brewing
Topping the list with 28.2 percent market share, Revolution is the city's favorite Chicago craft brand. The brand's hold on the market makes sense considering it's Illinois' largest independently owned craft brewery. After nine years of business, Revolution is the top ordered local brand in Chicago bars and restaurants.
21.9% Half Acre Beer Company
Founded in 2006, Half Acre Beer Company is one of the OG's of Chicago's brewery scene. The brand's popularity demanded not one, but two brewing facilities on Chicago's North Side. Don't let Half Acre's second place ranking fool you, this brewery produces Chicago's top selling local beer, Half Acre Daisy Cutter.
17.8% 3 Floyds Brewing Company
Everyone’s favorite heavy metal brewery had a great year in Chicago’s on-premise. Located just over the border in Munster, Indiana, 3 Floyds has exploded in popularity over recent years. With four products in the top sellers list, the most of any Chicago craft brewery, it may not be long before 3 Floyds Brewing moves up the ladder.
5.5% Two Brothers Artisan Brewing Company
This 100% family-owned brewery has been a cornerstone of the Chicago craft beer scene for over 21 years. Highly regarded for its experimentation and passion for pushing the boundaries of flavor, Two Brothers knows how to please Chicago craft beer lovers who are always looking for something new and different to get their hands on.
5% Off Color Brewing Company
Known for its eccentric flavor combinations and creativity, Off Color Brewing has rapidly gained traction with local beer enthusiasts. In just over 5 years of business, this local brand has catapulted into the top five most popular Chicago craft brewery list due to their focus on making bold beer styles and using inventive ingredients.
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