The small family brewery Lang-Bräu in northern Bavaria is closing after 170 years, as rising energy costs and shifting consumer habits favor cheaper, mass-produced beer. Owner Richard Hopf tried to diversify with new products, but declining beer consumption and the need for urgent investments made survival impossible. While Lang-Bräu's employees face uncertain futures, Andechs Monastery Brewery near Munich continues to thrive, drawing visitors with its historic tradition and strong regional identity. The monks have embraced alcohol-free beer options and modernized production while maintaining their premium pricing. As Lang-Bräu shuts down, Hopf considers a future as a consultant, helping other struggling breweries navigate their own closures.
This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.