USA, OK: Economic study claims beer creates $2.8B impact in Oklahoma

Beer serves up an annual economic impact of more than $2.8 billion in Oklahoma, according to a new economic study called Beer Serves America, issued by the Beer Institute and the National Beer Wholesalers Association.

In Oklahoma, beer contributes more than $412 million in annual tax collections, and $726 million in wages, according to the study. The industry helps employ 17,000 in the state.

The study looked at how the U.S. beer industry, including brewers and beer importers, beer distributors and retailers, contributes to the national economy.

Nationwide, the beer industry generates nearly $253 billion in economic activity, produces $48.5 billion in tax revenue and supports 1.75 million jobs, the study found.

The study came up with those numbers based on government and industry data, as well as direct, indirect and induced spending, labour and tax collection.

“As one of Oklahoma’s many family owned, independent beer distributorships, I know the tremendous economic impact that the beer industry has on communities across the state, and the members of the Beer Distributors of Oklahoma are a key component of that impact,” Mitch Zaloudek, Beer Distributors of Oklahoma chairman, said in a statement.

Brewers and beer importers directly employ 49,576 Americans. More than 70 percent of brewing jobs are linked to large and midsize brewers and beer importers. Nationwide, more than $48.5 billion in tax revenue is generated by the production and sale of beer and other malt beverages, according to the study.

“It can be said that beer truly serves America. Beer is more than our nation’s favourite adult drink — it is a powerhouse in job creation, commercial activity and tax revenue,” Jim McGreevy, CEO of the Beer Institute, said in a statement.

22 August, 2015