Pennsylvania's Beer Distribution Industry Recognizes Economic Impact of Its Workforce This Labor Day

NBWA President and CEO Craig Purser said, "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.

"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 the beer industry — made up of brewers, beer importers, beer distributors and beer retailers — contributes more than $9.2 billion annually to Pennsylvania’s economy.

Jointly commissioned by the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) and the Beer Institute, the study shows that Pennsylvania’s independent distributors alone generate more than 4,700 local jobs in Pennsylvania — accounting for more than $340 million in wages and benefits and $745 million in economic output.

Across the country, there are more than 130,000 distributor jobs, according to the study. The American beer industry as a whole generates nearly $253 billion in economic activity, produces $48.5 billion in tax revenue and supports 1.75 million jobs.

Purser added, "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. 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, Du