USA: Minnesota’s beer sales declined by 1.4 % in the first six months this year compared with the same period in 2003, according to the Minnesota Beer Wholesalers Association. Beer consumption also declined last year, The Associated Press revealed on October 30.

Market leader Anheuser-Busch lost 2% of the Minnesota market from January through July, while number two Miller Brewing gained 2 percentage points. Nationwide, the big brewing companies continue to find soft sales.

Despite the overall drop, Minnesota-based brewers are faring a little better. Grain Belt sales are up 10% through the first nine months, and Schell product sales are up 2%.

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