Coopers chases Stout sales of 4 million litres for the first time in 70 years

Coopers Brewery, Australia’s largest independent family-owned brewery reporting sales volumes for its Stout are now approaching the historic highs of the 1950s.

The brewery sold 3.7 million litres of Stout in 2020, a rise of 10% on 2019, and despite a pandemic-led drop in keg sales. It’s back in a big way among Australian men and women – both as a standalone drink or as a popular mixer.

“While our Stout has been in constant production since 1879, sales hit their peak in the 1950s when we were selling over 4 million litres annually,” Coopers Managing Director, Dr Tim Cooper said.

“Demand for Stout declined after 1975, with sales dipping to below two million litres in the early 1990s. However, we’re now back in the midst of a Stout revival and the popularity of beer in cans is rising markedly.

“It’s the perfect time for an eye-catching addition to our growing can portfolio.

“We expect the new can will build on the resurgence of Stout and edge us even closer to 4 million litres of sales for the first time in 70 years.”

Dr Cooper said the high gravity brew with an abundance of roasted malt provides Stout with luscious fruit and chocolate flavours.

Coopers Marketing & Innovation Director, Cam Pearce said, “Consumers have embraced more complex beer styles over the last 12 months, “Extended periods of time at home have given consumers the opportunity to discover new and interesting beers. Stout has benefited from this trend showing strong growth not only during cooler months but also out of its traditional season.

“We feel that releasing Best Extra Stout in a can format will make it even more appealing to new and seasoned lovers of this hearty brew,” Mr Pearce said.

Coopers Best Extra Stout in 440ml matte black can format will be available in liquor outlets from June in four packs and cartons. It is still available in bottle format and on tap.

And as more people rekindle their love of Stout or discover it for the first time, Coopers Brewery has canned Coopers Best Extra Stout just ahead of the traditional winter surge.

MIXING IT UP – popular Stout combinations

Portagaff – 70% Coopers Best Extra Stout and 30% Lemonade
Black and Tan – 50% Coopers Best Extra Stout and 50% Coopers Pale Ale

Black Russian – Coopers Best Extra Stout with 1⁄2 measure Vodka and 1⁄2 measure Kahlua
Black Velvet – 50% Coopers Best Extra Stout and 50% Champagne
Stoutia – Coopers Best Extra Stout plus full measure of Tia Maria
Stout and Stormy – Coopers Best Extra Stout plus full measure of dark rum

IN THE CAN – recent Coopers can releases