Glen Fox, endowed professor of malting and brewing sciences at UC Davis, is quoted in a Sacramento Bee article published on August 2, 2025 titled, "Are evolving tastes and high costs killing Sacramento breweries? Experts weigh in".  The article reports the closure of local breweries Track 7 and Device Brewing, both in Sacramento.  An array of factors in the brewing industry's strife are discussed, including fluctuating consumer demand, brewery oversaturation in some markets, economic barriers and changing market share, including the trend of Gen Z to drink less alcohol in general.  

Positive trends such as the ability, especially for smaller breweries, to pivot to other products (such hard seltzer, offering food) are mentioned. Professor Fox states that he remains positive, citing the strong interest in the educational opportunies offered at UC Davis - the master brewers certificate and a comprehensive undergraduate program that teaches students brewery logistics and marketing as well as how to brew beer.  There also continue to be technological advances that can help breweries be sustainable and stay efficient.  

You can read the full article here (paywall may apply).