Brewers Roll Out New Light, Craft Beers

Consumers might shop less or put off buying a new computer during a recession, but they keep drinking beer.

Beer sales rose 1% last year to $99.3 billion, while sales of wine and liquor fell, according to the Beverage Information Group, a market research firm.

While the weak economy hasn't killed beer demand, it's damping growth. In response, brewers are targeting calorie-conscious Americans with lighter beers. They're also trying to appeal to frugal connoisseurs who prefer high-quality craft beers, but can't stomach the cost. ...