The craft beer industry made its mark on the U.S. economy according to the 2018 Economic Impact Report released earlier today by the Brewers Association.

The annual report highlighted, that small and independent craft brewers contributed $79.1 billion to the U.S. economy. This amount covers roughly .4 percent of gross domestic product. It also marks a four percent increase from 2017. The calculation is derived from the total impact of beer brewed by craft brewers as it moves through the three-tiered system (breweries, wholesalers, and retailers). It also factors in all non-beer products such as food and merchandise sold in brewpub restaurants and brewery taprooms.

In addition to a moneymaker, the craft industry continued to serve as a major job provider in 2018, responsible for 559,545 total jobs – 150,055 of which directly at breweries. More than $5 billion in wages and benefits were provided to brewery employees through 2018.

“With small breweries in every state and nearly every congressional district in the country, craft brewers are a vital and growing part of the economy in cities and towns all across the country,” said Bart Watson, chief economist of the Brewers Association. “Beer lovers are spending their dollars by supporting small and independent brewers in their local communities and across the country, and its positive impact is evident nationwide.”

Top Five States by Economic Contribution

1. California, $9 billion
2. Pennsylvania, $6.3 billion
3. Texas, $5.1 billion
4. New York, $4.1 billion
5. Florida, $3.6 billion

Feature Image Courtesy of the Brewers Association

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