Schlitz Brews Final Batch as 65 Pennsylvania Breweries Close in 2 Years

1 articles · Updated · Statecollege.com · Jun 25

Schlitz has brewed its last batch, ending a beer brand founded in 1849 that once ranked as the largest U.S. brewer and was still No. 2 as recently as 1976.
Sixty-five Pennsylvania breweries have closed over the past two years, reflecting a broader market correction that has hit both legacy labels and once-fast-growing craft brewers.
Health-conscious drinking is driving part of that shift, with younger consumers drinking less and bars expanding nonalcoholic beer and mocktail offerings.
Beer tastes are also moving away from high-alcohol IPAs toward lagers and lower-alcohol ales, pushing breweries to rely more on events and community spaces to keep customers coming back.