The U.S. brewing industry continues to serve as a critical engine of economic activity, supporting 2.42 million jobs and contributing $58 billion in tax revenue, according to the latest Beer Serves America report.
The study, released by the Beer Institute and the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), highlights the sector’s far-reaching economic footprint, emphasizing its role in job creation, manufacturing, agriculture, distribution, and retail.
Beer Institute chief economist Andrew Heritage stated that beer holds a central role in American culture, being the preferred alcoholic beverage for two-thirds of U.S. drinkers. Heritage noted the industry’s ability to adapt and innovate with a wide range of offerings, including low- and no-alcohol products, that cater to evolving consumer preferences. He emphasized the need for policies that recognize the industry’s impact on agriculture, retail, and manufacturing.
The report revealed that the beer industry provides well-paying jobs in every U.S. congressional district, with wages in retail and brewing surpassing the national average. Furthermore, for every dollar invested in the beer industry, an additional $2.31 is generated in economic activity.
Brian Crawford, president and CEO of the Beer Institute, said the sector’s influence extends beyond beverage production and sales. “The beer industry’s economic footprint extends far beyond production and sales—it drives innovation across supply chains and sustains life-long careers,” he said, urging for supportive policies to sustain the industry’s significant contributions.
The analysis detailed the logistics behind the industry, highlighting the role of nearly 135,000 distribution workers who help supply 950,000 retail jobs with freshly packaged beer. This complex supply chain stretches from farms to brewers to retailers, impacting communities across the nation.
Craig Purser, president and CEO of the NBWA, called the beer industry “a true American success story,” praising the 135,000 beer distribution professionals who fuel economic growth and help maintain a competitive national beer marketplace.
According to the report, the industry supports over 43,000 farming and agricultural jobs, representing nearly 1.6% of all U.S. agricultural employment. It also accounts for approximately 77,000 American manufacturing jobs—more than any other sector in the alcoholic beverage industry.
Heritage described the sector as a cornerstone of local economies, providing critical support to small businesses, farmers, truck drivers, and restaurants nationwide. “Beer supports jobs across the entire supply chain—from the farmers who grow barley and hops, to the brewers who craft it, to the distributors who deliver it to the places where we enjoy it,” he said.
Lester Jones, vice president of analytics and chief economist at the NBWA, reinforced the industry’s steady contribution, stating: “While the national economy sees highs and lows, the beer industry is a steady, reliable source of jobs and economic activity… contributing about 1.6% of Gross Domestic Product and employing more than 2.4 million people.”
The findings underscore the U.S. beer industry’s enduring role in driving economic stability, innovation, and employment nationwide.
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