In contrast to Anheuser-Busch’s woes (see previous post), Victory Brewing Co. of Downingtown, Pennsylvania (near Philadaelphia) reported yesterday that as of January 27th they had produced more beer than during their entire first year of production. Congratulations to Bill and Ron, who provided the following press release.

Victory Brewing announced today a significant benchmark reached in their growth as a thriving craft brewery. On Friday, January 27, Victory’s 2006 production exceeded their total first year production. This event signifies a milestone for the near tenth anniversary of Victory Brewing operations. In 1996, Victory’s first year, total number of barrels produced equaled 2,550. That production amount was met and exceeded Friday, January 27, showing the more than 13 time growth in barrel production achieved in the ten years of company existence.

“This milestone shows how far we’ve come as a company and an industry [microbrewing industry]. It proves what Ron and I believed when we started Victory ten years ago, that Americans would grow to cherish full flavor beer,” said Bill Covaleski, Brewmaster and President of Victory Brewing Company.

The growth trend at Victory Brewing is part of a much larger market segment trend as U.S. craft breweries continue to steal market share away from large industrial brewers. In 2005, U.S. craft brewer sales increased by an estimated 7.1%, while domestic large brewers saw sales dip by 2%. This increase marks the 35th straight year that U.S. craft brewers have been able to increase market share.