The global premium lager market is estimated to account for USD 120 billion in 2025. It is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% during the assessment period and reach a value of USD 209.1 billion by 2035.
| Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Estimated Global Premium Lager Market Size (2025E) | USD 120 billion |
| Projected Global Premium Lager Market Value (2035F) | USD 209.1 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 5.7% |
Higher disposable incomes, especially in emerging economies, enable consumers to spend more on discretionary items like premium alcoholic beverages. This economic shift allows premium lager brands to expand their reach and penetrate markets that previously favored mass-market options. Thus, the growing disposable income is fostering the adoption of premium lagers.
Exclusive Offer: 30% Off on Regional Reports
Get a free sample report and customize your regions for a 30% discount on your regional report!
Surging Preference for Quality and Craftsmanship
Quality has now taken priority over quantity, especially among the alcoholic beverage-drinking population. In such regard, premium lagers stand at the top in quality due to the better quality ingredients and techniques applied in their brewing. Moreover, as urbanization accelerates globally, more consumers are exposed to diverse and premium drinking experiences in bars, pubs, and restaurants. The urban lifestyle, which emphasizes socializing and indulgence, naturally fosters a demand for premium lagers.
Flourishing Food & Beverages Industry to Propel Sales
The growth of the food and beverage industry is significantly contributing to the premium lager market by providing increased opportunities for premium lagers to be featured in a variety of settings. As dining out becomes an increasingly popular activity, especially in urban areas, premium lagers are often positioned alongside high-quality wines and spirits in upscale restaurants, bars, and pubs.
These venues are catering to a more discerning clientele that seeks refined drinking options, boosting the demand for premium lagers that offer unique flavors and a high-quality drinking experience.
Furthermore, the rise in food culture, where consumers are more adventurous and open to exploring new flavors, has also created a perfect environment for premium lagers to thrive.
Surge in Social Drinking Culture
The growth of upscale bars, restaurants, and pubs, especially in urban areas, has contributed to the rise of premium lagers. These venues focus on offering high-quality, diverse drink options, where premium lagers are often showcased as a sophisticated and desirable choice for patrons. As social drinking becomes more about the experience and less about mere consumption, premium lagers are becoming a popular option for those seeking refined and exclusive drinking moments.
Rise of Sustainable and Ethical Brewing Practices
A key trend in the premium lager market is the surging emphasis on sustainability and ethical brewing practices. Consumers are increasingly aware of environmental and social issues, leading them to favor brands that prioritize eco-friendly production methods, such as reducing water usage, minimizing carbon emissions, and using recyclable packaging.
Additionally, breweries that source ingredients ethically and support local communities are gaining popularity. This aligns with consumer values but adds to the premium appeal of such lagers, with an emphasis on a brand being a responsible producer of quality beverages.
Rising Trend of Premiumization
Key consumer trend in the premium lager market lies in the desire for premiumization and unique drinking experiences. Consumers are shifting from generic offerings, looking for a sense of exclusivity, superior quality, and distinctive flavor profiles.
This trend is most apparent among younger demographics, such as younger people who value the storytelling and heritage behind premium brands. Limited-edition releases, collaborations with artisans, and lagers brewed with rare or locally sourced ingredients are becoming popular.
Steep Product Cost May Impede its Adoption
One significant restraining factor for the premium lager market is its higher cost compared to standard beers. The premium price tag, driven by superior ingredients, advanced brewing techniques, and upscale branding, can limit accessibility for price-conscious consumers. In regions with economic constraints are prevalent, or consumers prioritize affordability over quality, the demand for premium lagers may be curtailed.
This price barrier makes it challenging for premium brands to penetrate markets dominated by mass-market beers or to compete with the affordability of locally brewed alternatives.
Check Free Sample Report & Save 40%!
Select your niche segments and personalize your insights for smart savings. Cut costs now!
| Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Product | Craft Lager |
| Market Share in 2025 | 34% |
Based on product, the market is bifurcated into conventional lager and craft lager. The craft lager segment is poised to witness a 34% share in 2025. Craft lagers are widely bought because of their focus on quality, authenticity, and innovation. Consumers are increasingly attracted to beverages that reflect artisanal craftsmanship, which craft lagers often represent through small-batch production and unique brewing techniques.
| Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Distribution Channel | Off-trade |
| Market Share in 2025 | 24% |
With respect to distribution channel, the market is segregated into off-trade and on-trade. The off-trade segment is anticipated to depict a 24% share in 2025. Premium lagers are now widely available in off-trade channels, including supermarkets, liquor stores, and online platforms, because of the increasing demand for them by consumers and the convenience offered by these outlets. Consumers can buy premium lagers through these channels and enjoy high-quality beverages at home, saving the cost and effort of visiting bars or restaurants.
Off-trade channels also support occasions such as parties, get-togethers, or a quiet evening, when individuals would want their premium beverages at their fingertips. Also, e-commerce has helped make the product accessible and easier to buy with an extended choice of premium lagers with product descriptions and reviews to support a purchase decision.
The Indian market is slated to showcase a 14.3% CAGR during the forecast period. Alcohol consumption is becoming increasingly socially acceptable in many parts of India, especially among the younger generation and in urban areas. Premium lagers are considered a stylish and sophisticated drink, which makes them popular at social gatherings and events.
Additionally, high-end pubs, bars, and restaurants have proliferated in metropolitan cities and emerging urban hubs, offering the ideal platform for premium lagers. Such establishments are known to sell premium beverages in order to satisfy the needs of customers who pay for quality over quantity.
The Chinese market is anticipated to observe a 12.4% CAGR from 2025 to 2035. The country’s growing middle class population has greater per capita income and an increased desire for premium products, including alcoholic beverages. Premium lagers are considered a status symbol, catering to consumers seeking high-quality experiences. The high availability of a wide range of brands is further favoring market growth.
Younger generations, specifically Millennials and Gen Z, are increasingly willing to invest on premium products that offer unique experiences. These consumers are also more interested in supporting brands with a strong story. Premium lagers often meet these expectations. Additionally, the rise of craft beer bars, upscale restaurants, and social gatherings focused around premium beverages has fueled demand for high-quality beers, including premium lagers.
The Canadian customers emphasize upscaling drinking experiences, especially in urban areas. Premium lagers are increasingly featured in high-end bars, pubs, and restaurants, where consumers look for beers that offer a sophisticated, premium experience. With more Canadians embracing social gatherings and dining out, premium lagers align with this desire for quality and variety.
Consumers in the UK are becoming more health-conscious and ethical in their purchasing decisions. Many premium lager brands emphasize natural ingredients, sustainable practices, and environmental responsibility. These values resonate with a growing segment of the population that prefers products aligned with their personal values.
Moreover, there is a growing trend in the UK toward experiential drinking, where consumers seek out beers that offer distinctive flavors and quality. Premium lagers link to fine dining, posh pubs, or social events but fit in a trend that delivers a more upscale and memorable experience of drinking.
International tourism in Italy exposes the domestic market and its visitors to a variety of worldwide beer, including premium lagers. International tourists are generally interested in trying new and different beers, and their perceptions of better-quality international lagers indeed impact Italian demand. In addition, a growing number of international beer brands with strong international brand recognition are gaining popularity in the Italian market.
The market is highly competitive, with both international and local breweries vying for consumer attention. Major global players such as Anheuser-Busch InBev, Heineken, and Carlsberg dominate the market with their well-established premium lager brands. These companies leverage strong brand recognition and expansive distribution networks to maintain their leadership positions.
Anheuser-Busch InBev’s Budweiser and Heineken’s flagship lager are prime examples of globally recognized brands that have carved out significant market share by focusing on quality, consistency, and broad availability. These companies continue to invest in marketing, sponsorships, and consumer loyalty programs to enhance brand visibility and consumer engagement.
Smaller, independent craft breweries are also making significant moves in the premium lager segment by offering unique, locally brewed options that emphasize craftsmanship and authenticity. Companies like BrewDog and Sierra Nevada, known for their craft-focused portfolios, are expanding their presence in the market through innovative flavors and sustainability initiatives.
Many of these craft brands are using limited-edition releases, collaborations, and a strong commitment to local sourcing to differentiate themselves from mass-market lagers. The trend toward premiumization has prompted both large and small players to innovate with new recipes, sustainable packaging, and exclusive products to meet the evolving preferences of consumers.
More and more startups are coming into the premium lager market, focusing on innovation and quality in their products as the tastes of beer drinkers evolve. Brands such as Lagunitas Brewing Company and Beavertown Brewery have gained popularity in the premium lager segment through craft-style lagers with unique flavors that appeal to younger, more adventurous consumers.
These startups differentiate themselves by emphasizing artisanal brewing methods, local ingredients, and creative packaging. Their strong online presence and social media marketing help them build communities of loyal customers, while collaborations with other craft beer brands or events like beer festivals boost brand visibility.
Additionally, many premium lager startups focus on sustainability as a key growth strategy. Brands like New Belgium Brewing and Athletic Brewing Co., which specialize in non-alcoholic beverages and low-alcohol premium lagers, are tapping into the rising demand for healthier and more mindful drinking options.
The market has been studied based on segments, including product, distribution channel, and region.
Based on product, the market is bifurcated into conventional lager and craft lager.
With respect to distribution channel, the market is segregated into off-trade and on-trade.
From the regional standpoint, the market is segregated into Latin America, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, North America, and Europe.
The market is anticipated to reach USD 120 billion in 2025.
The market is predicted to reach a size of USD 209.1 billion by 2035.
Some of the key companies manufacturing the product include Anheuser-Busch InBev, China Resources Snow Breweries, Molson Coors Brewing, and others.
India is a prominent hub for product manufacturers.
Explore Alcoholic and Non Alcoholic Beverages Insights
View Reports
Premium Lager Market
Thank you!
You will receive an email from our Business Development Manager. Please be sure to check your SPAM/JUNK folder too.
