Pennsylvania Brewery Count Doubles

(Harrisburg) — A new legislative report says the number of breweries in Pennsylvania doubled over a recent 10-year period, and suggests changes to law that would help the beer industry.

The Legislative Budget and Finance Committeestudy released Tuesday found more than 100 breweries operating at the end of 2011, more than twice as many as there were in 2001. 

By one survey, Pennsylvania breweries’ output grew from 3.6 million barrels in 2010 to 4.3 million barrels in 2011. 

The study says Pennsylvania breweries have a direct impact on the state’s economy of more than $1 billion. Investment in plants and equipment is on the rise, as is brewery-related employment.

The committee suggests changes to the Liquor Code in response to the boom in craft breweries.
.