Global Stout Market Grows Steadily at a CAGR of 4.75%

Introduction

Stout is a dark and robust beer, renowned for its rich flavor and smooth, thick texture. It traces its roots back to 18th-century England, evolving from porter-style brews. Made using roasted barley or malt, stouts often feature distinct coffee or chocolate undertones. There are several types, such as dry stout, milk stout, and imperial stout, each varying in taste and alcohol content. Guinness, one of the most iconic examples, exemplifies the style. With its creamy, full-bodied character, stout is especially favored during colder seasons and pairs well with hearty dishes and rich desserts.

MarketDynamics

Expansion of global beer culture and the rising number of microbreweries drive the global market

The global stout market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the expanding beer culture and the increasing popularity of microbreweries. These smaller breweries are appealing to consumers by offering distinctive, high-quality brews that cater to diverse palates, including a growing demand for stout varieties.

• According to the Brewers Association, the U.S. had 9,861 active craft breweries in 2024, including 2,034 microbreweries. Many of these are gaining global recognition for their creativity and craftsmanship. A notable example is Caius Farm Brewery in Branford, Connecticut, which earned a silver medal at the 2025 World Beer Cup for its Elagabalus stout, highlighting the international appreciation for craft stouts.

The rise in craft breweries focusing on unique stout styles is playing a key role in strengthening the global market for premium and innovative stout products.

Potential for stout-infused food and beverage innovations creates tremendous opportunities

The global stout market is witnessing promising growth opportunities driven by the emergence of stout-infused food and beverage innovations. With consumers increasingly drawn to distinctive and immersive culinary experiences, the incorporation of stout into premium and artisanal products is gaining traction.

• For example, in June 2024, the popular ice cream company Salt & Straw introduced its Brewer’s Series, featuring beer-inspired ice cream flavors such as Breakside’s Barrel-Aged Chocolate Stout, which blends barrel-aged stout with cocoa nibs and tres leches cake. The collection also includes flavors infused with hazy IPA and pilsner, reflecting the growing popularity of stout-based gourmet treats.

Such cross-industry collaborations not only expand stout’s reach beyond conventional beer enthusiasts but also open up new revenue opportunities for brewers by partnering with niche food and beverage producers.

Regional Analysis

In Europe, the stout market is seeing growth, especially in the UK and Ireland, where stout has a long-standing tradition. The rise of craft beer culture has fueled interest in stouts, with local breweries experimenting with new variations. For instance, Guinness, a global leader, continues to dominate, but smaller breweries like BrewDog in Scotland have introduced innovative stouts such as their "Punk IPA" stout.

The European market is also benefiting from the increasing demand for premium and artisanal products, with stouts often featured in beer festivals such as the Great British Beer Festival in London. However, the market faces challenges, such as strong competition from lighter beers that are preferred in Mediterranean regions. Yet, the rising trend of dark beer appreciation and regional specialities in countries like Belgium is expected to propel stout consumption, particularly in colder climates.

Key Highlights

• The global stout market size was valued at USD 9.91 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow from USD 10.38 billion in 2025 to reach USD 15.04 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.75% during the forecast period (2025–2033).
• By type, the market includes dry stout, sweet stout, oatmeal stout, imperial stout, foreign extra stout, and other specialty stouts.
• By packaging, the market is categorized into bottles, cans, kegs, and draft.
• By consumer demographics, the market is segmented into millennials (ages 25–40), Gen Z (ages 18–24), and Gen X and older consumers.
• By distribution channel, the segments are on-trade and off-trade. The on-trade segment dominated the market.
• Europe is the highest shareholder in the global market.

Competitive Players

1. Diageo plc (Guinness)
2. Heineken N.V.
3. Carlsberg Group
4. Molson Coors Beverage Company
5. Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV
6. The Boston Beer Company
7. Constellation Brands, Inc.
8. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
9. BrewDog plc
10. Founders Brewing Co.

Recent Developments

• In March 2025, Great Lakes Brewing Company will bring back its Blackout Stout Imperial Stout for a limited period. This bold 9.9% ABV beer, inspired by the 2003 Northeast blackout, is offered in 12 oz. 4-pack bottles and on draft.

Segmentation

1. By Type
   1. Dry Stout
   2. Sweet Stout
   3. Oatmeal Stout
   4. Imperial Stout
   5. Foreign Extra Stout
   6. Other Specialty Stouts
2. By Packaging
   1. Bottles
   2. Cans
   3. Kegs
   4. Draft
   5. Others 
3. By Consumer Demographics
   1. Millennials (ages 25–40)
   2. Gen Z (ages 18–24)
   3. Gen X and Older Consumers 
4. By Distribution Channel
   1. On-Trade
   2. Off-Trade 
5. By Regions
   1. North America
   2. Europe
   3. Asia-Pacific
   4. Latin America
   5. The Middle East and Africa