The findings highlight a shift in Australian consumer preferences, with Japanese beer styles gaining strong momentum, particularly in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria.
The report indicates that premium imported beers continue to outperform standard domestic mainstream brands in many urban markets. While Mexican beer remains popular in parts of South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory, Japanese-style lagers have become increasingly prominent nationwide.
In response to these changing consumption patterns, Australian breweries are expanding their portfolios with locally produced versions of international beer styles, including Japanese rice lagers and Mexican-style lagers. The strategy aims to satisfy growing demand for global flavour profiles while keeping production local, reducing supply chain risks, and supporting domestic brewing.
The report also notes that regional beer preferences are influenced by local demographics and income levels, prompting retailers to tailor their product ranges to individual markets rather than relying on a uniform national assortment.
