On average, people in Austria consume nearly 100 litres of beer per person each year, a study has found.
Although beer consumption has been on the decline over the past few decades, it remains a central part of the country’s drinking culture for 84% of residents, according to the latest Beer Culture Report from Brau Union, conducted by market research firm Market.
One in three respondents said they prefer the taste of beer in restaurants or bars over drinking at home. Beer is particularly popular in social settings, which is why it remains a favourite at festivals, concerts, and among friends.
A Shift Towards Responsible Drinking
While 51% of respondents drink beer regularly – at least several times a month – there has been a noticeable shift towards more responsible drinking. For instance, 31% of regular beer drinkers now consciously opt for alcohol-free options. As a result, 46% of regular beer drinkers acknowledge a growing sense of responsibility regarding alcohol consumption. However, only around a quarter of the general population expressed an interest in alcohol-free beer.
Four in ten respondents reported having specific times or occasions when they typically drink beer, such as during meals, when dining out or on weekends. About a third said their beer consumption differs between weekdays and weekends or days off. Only 25% of those surveyed said they enjoy beer with lunch. For 46%, beer is primarily reserved for after work, while 47% drink it with dinner. One in three people also enjoy a beer later in the evening.
Growing Interest in Sustainable Choices
The study also highlights a growing preference for sustainable options, with 27% of respondents having tried beer made from organic ingredients. Additionally, many consumers are opting for reusable bottles, such as the 0.5-litre returnable bottles. On average, 62% of respondents favour this choice.
However, the report found significant regional differences: 74% of respondents in Upper Austria choose returnable bottles, compared to just 47% in Vienna. With the introduction of the new 0.33-litre returnable bottle, the report suggests that more beer drinkers may soon make the switch to reusable packaging.
The study surveyed 2,085 individuals aged 18 and over through a combination of telephone and online interviews.
