Barley shortage could drive up beer prices

Pearl Street Brewery brewmaster unsure how it will affect their prices

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — A barley shortage could have you paying more for your next beer.

Barley production across the country is down because of heavy rain last summer.

And since barley is used in so many of different products, the shortage is creating a big demand for malting barley from craft brewers.  

The demand could impact beer prices.

“It’s a global commodity so when one country or one region gets hit with a bad growing season, it affects the pricing and availability all over the world,” said Peal Street Brewery Brewmaster Joe Katchever.

Katchever also says he doesn’t know exactly how the shortage will affect their pricing, but does expect to absorb some of the cost.