The Economic Impact of Beer

Beer is good business. This according to a new study, commissioned by the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) and the Beer Institute. Do your part and tip one back.

The study found that America’s beer industry, including brewers, importers, distributors, brewer suppliers, and retailers, directly and indirectly contributes over $198 billion annually to the U.S. economy and provides nearly 1.9 million jobs — generating nearly $62 billion in wages and benefits. The industry also paid $41 billion in business, personal and consumption taxes in 2008. Consumption taxes included $3.8 billion in federal excise taxes, $1.7 billion in state excise taxes and $5.7 billion in state and local sales taxes.

“America’s brewing industry continues to play a pivotal role in supporting this nation’s economic viability,” said Tom Long, president and chief commercial officer of MillerCoors, and chairman of the Beer Institute. “Brewers in California have been a driving force in their communities for years by creating jobs and tax revenue for public services, and promoting alcohol awareness responsibility initiatives for retailers, schools, and families.”

NBWA President Craig Purser emphasizes that controls work to ensure alcoholic beverages are sold only to licensed retailers who in turn are responsible for selling only to adults of legal drinking age.

“These numbers demonstrate that our industry is essential to several sectors of the U.S. economy, particularly as the nation struggles to regain its footing in this uncertain climate,” said Jeff Becker, president of the Beer Institute. “For this reason, it is important that state and federal officials consider equitable tax policies that do not unduly harm an industry that provides so many domestic jobs and so much economic growth.”

Plus, it tastes good.

Image Credit: mfajardo, Flickr