USA: Beer-related businesses, including brewers, wholesalers, retailers, and brewer suppliers, contribute more than $162 billion annually to the U.S. economy, according to a detailed study released on February 16 by the Beer Institute and the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA). The industry's economic impact includes nearly 1.8 million jobs paying more than $54 billion in wages as well as more than $30 billion in federal, state, and local taxes generated and paid, including consumption taxes. These results show significant growth in all categories over a similar study examining the industry's economic impact in 2001. The report released today examines data from 2004.

"This study demonstrates that the beer industry is more than just those who make and distribute our products," said Jeff Becker, President of the Beer Institute. "We are an industry of farmers, can manufacturers, truck drivers, retailers, and many others. While the economic impact of the industry is significant, brewers and wholesalers are also committed to promoting the responsible consumption of their products and to improving local communities."

According to the report, the direct and indirect economic output of brewers, wholesalers, retailers, and suppliers to the American economy increased more than 12 percent since 2001, growing from about $144 billion to the current $162 billion. Through direct and indirect economic contributions, the industry helped add more than 120,000 jobs and over $7 billion in wages to the U.S. economy over this time period.

"We are extremely proud to be a significant contributor to our nation's economy," said NBWA President David Rehr. "More than simply providing a refreshing beverage enjoyed by 90 million adults, we are a broad, national industry that positively touches nearly every community across America, providing jobs for our fellow citizens and tax revenues for our towns and cities."

Directly, the industry includes 555,645 brewing, wholesale, and retail establishments that employ 890,726 workers. This is an increase of 33,526 direct industry employees since 2001. Total direct wages in the industry are just over $21 billion.

The Beer Institute, established in 1986, is the national trade association for the brewing industry, representing both large and small brewers, as well as importers and industry suppliers. The Institute is committed to development of sound public policy and to the values of civic duty and personal responsibility.

Founded in 1938, the National Beer Wholesalers Association advocates before government and the public on behalf of nearly 2,200 licensed independent beer wholesalers with operations located in every congressional district and state across the country. Beer wholesalers are committed to ensuring that the products they provide are consumed legally, moderately and responsibly.

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