U.S. beer distributors generate 131,000 jobs

As Americans prepare to celebrate Labor Day, the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) has rightfully decided to recognize the men and women of the beer distribution industry whose work positively impacts the nation’s economy. We salute with them.

“From truck drivers to fork lift operators and from sales representative to graphic artists, America’s beer distribution employees work day in and day out to make this the best beer market in the world for everyone,” NBWA President and CEO Craig Purser said.

“With more than 3,700 breweries in operation across the United States today, independent distributors are delivering more beer varieties and brands to the marketplace than ever before,” Purser added. “Because of distribution employees who drive the beer trucks in local communities, fill the beer coolers at corner stores and deliver new tap handles to neighborhood pubs, consumers can choose from an unparalleled variety of beer — from familiar domestic brands to intriguing imports and exciting new products from local and small craft brewers. That’s something we can all celebrate!”

The Beer Serves America economic impact study released this summer shows that independent beer distributors alone generate more than 131,000 local jobs across the United States — accounting for more than $8.5 billion in wages and benefits and $19 billion in economic output.

Jointly commissioned by the National Beer Wholesalers Association and the Beer Institute, the study shows that the beer industry as a whole — made up of brewers, beer importers, beer distributors and beer retailers — supports 1.75 million jobs, generates nearly $253 billion in economic activity and produces $48.5 billion in tax revenue.

“Independent beer distributors provide significant economic benefits in their communities through local business-to-business commerce; investments in local infrastructure; and capital assets and tax revenue,” said Purser. “Beer distributors provide services that help brewers of all sizes grow; improve efficiency for trading partners, especially small brewers and retailers; and ensure consumers have a broad selection of products to enjoy.”

The Beer Serves America study was compiled by an independent economics firm, John Dunham & Associates. It is the most comprehensive analysis of the industry available, using data collected directly from private companies, Dun & Bradstreet, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Alcohol Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.