Go ahead, ya lush, order another brew. You’re actually helping out the mitten with each sip.
A new economic study released today highlights how the U.S. beer industry – from brewers and beer importers to beer distributors to retailers – generates nearly $253 billion in economic activity, produces $48.5 billion in tax revenue and supports 1.75 million jobs.
The Beer Institute and the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) will release the Beer Serves America report during a Congressional briefing later today detailing the industry’s complete impact on the American economy. The study, based on government and industry data, examines direct, indirect and induced spending, labor and tax collection.
The report reveals a number of ways in which your daily suds have had a remarkable impact on the US economy, and in Michigan in particular.
In case you didn’t know, Michigan ranks 6th in breweries per capita according to the Brewers Association, and is receiving massive economic benefits from the industry.
Here are a few quick facts on just how helpful your modest drinking habit actually is:
- The beer industry contributes 35,000 direct jobs in Michigan and $1.04 billion in wages
- It also generates $1.2 billion in federal, state and local taxes
- Michigan is eighth in total jobs created and 14th in total economic output generated by the national beer industry
Amazing, right?
While most Michiganders are well aware of all the stellar beer that we produce, it’s still fun to see how it helps the economy.
So, indulge your cravings for the Michigan suds you know and love. And in the words of the most interesting man in the world, “Stay thirsty, my friends.”
The Beer Serves America study was compiled by an independent economics firm, John Dunham & Associates. You can check out the full statistics on Michigan’s beer bounty here.
