Retail beer sales in Russia decreased by 15.6% in nine months, malt and beer production decreased slightly.

Retail beer sales in Russia in the first three quarters of 2025 decreased by 15.6% compared to the same period last year. The drop affected all major distribution channels, including convenience stores and chain retail. At the same time, malt production decreased by only 0.8% over the same period, while the production of beer and beer drinks decreased by 0.6% compared to the level of 2024, which indicates the stability of the industry’s production base.

The main reason for the decline in beer production and consumption is the increase in the price of the drink.

According to RATK, in the first 9 months of 2025, retail beer sales fell by 16.9% to 462.36 million decaliters.

According to Nielsen, the average price per liter of beer in 2023 was 120 rubles, in 2024 — 129 rubles, and at the end of July 2025 it reached 151 rubles per 1 liter. According to Rosstat, the average consumer price of beer in September 2025 was 197.6 rubles per liter, reflecting further price increases in the retail segment. The growth since 2023 was 26%. Imported beer has risen the most, with a 20-25% share in sales. In 2025, it cost an average of 207 rubles per liter, which is 36% more expensive than last year.

According to Nielsen, sales of imported and licensed brands are falling.

According to analysts, the main reason for the drop in sales was a reduction in consumer spending and a change in customer preferences, which began to choose non-alcoholic drinks more often or make purchases less often. At the same time, producers are adapting to new conditions by optimizing logistics and actively promoting seasonal varieties.

The raw materials segment remains relatively stable: breweries continue to maintain capacity utilization, and malt exports remain at the level of last year. Despite the temporary slowdown in demand, market participants note that the decline in production turned out to be much milder than expected.

The industry expects a gradual recovery in consumer interest in the category at the end of the year. The approaching winter season traditionally stimulates sales of festive and limited-edition beers, and the growing interest in craft and non-alcoholic beers may become a driver of a new round of market development.