The beer industry contributes more than $144 billion per year to the United States economy according to a new report released today by the Beer Institute, an industry trade group representing America's brewers, and the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), representing over two thousand independent beer wholesalers in the US.

The results are found in the 2003 Beer Industry Economic Impact Study, which uses the most recent data to calculate the significant impact of the beer industry on the economy - the first update since 1997. "The economic contribution of the 'beer economy' is a testament to the commitment to excellence of the industry and its workers." The positive contributions of the industry extend to more than simply extra economic output for the country, but also to state and federal tax revenue, estimated at $27.6 billion, generated by the industry and its consumers.

NBWA President David Rehr said, "This study reaffirms the beer industry's preeminence as a critical economic sector in the nation, not just through its direct impact, but also in the massive economic ripple effects it creates.

The Beer Institute, established in 1986, is the national trade association for the brewing industry, representing both large and small brewers, as well as importers and industry suppliers.

18 April, 2003