Well it turns out that something both Homer Simpson and Elepharts have known for a long, long time has turned out to be true: BEER IS GOOD. No really. A new economic impact study released by the Beer Institute (once again - not kidding - there really is a Beer Institute) shows America's beer industry contributes $223.8 billion each year to the U.S. economy. The study shows that the industry generates more than 1.8 million American jobs -- which account for $71.2 billion in wages and benefits. The industry also contributed $44.7 billion dollars in the form of business, personal and consumption taxes in 2010.
"Brewers across the country, large and small, remain an integral part of their communities. Not only do they promote alcohol responsibility programs for local retailers, schools and families, this study shows they also create sustainable jobs and important tax revenues that contribute to our nation's economy," said Dave Peacock, president of Anheuser-Busch and chairman of the Beer Institute. "America's brewing industry continues to play a significant role in supporting the economy in each and every state."
According to the study, the beer industry directly employs more than 1 million people, paying $32.5 billion in wages. Beer sales help support roughly 900,000 retail jobs, including those at supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, bars, stadiums, and other outlets. Supplier and induced impacts generate nearly $135.7 billion in economic activity in all industries specifically agriculture and manufacturing.
The Economic Impact study was conducted by John Dunham & Associates based in New York City and covers data compiled in 2010. The complete study, including state-by-state and congressional district breakdowns of economic contributions, is available at Beer Serves America, www.BeerServesAmerica.org.
Elepharts really only has one question about all of this... how do we get a job at the Beer Institute? There are some staff members here who would be a really good fit. You know, with years and years of quaffing and loving the golden nectar - surely they'd qualify :)
Cheers!!!!
See also: Stella Artois Wants To Make You A Movie Star
