Ohio’s craft brewing sector continues to demonstrate resilience and economic vitality despite challenges such as inflation, rising operational costs, and evolving consumer preferences, according to the Ohio Craft Brewers Association’s 2024 Economic and Fiscal Impact Report.
The biennial report highlights that Ohio’s independent breweries generated $1.29 billion in economic output last year, a slight increase from $1.27 billion in 2022. Craft brewers in the state produced 1.15 million barrels of beer in 2024, securing Ohio’s position as the sixth largest craft beer-producing state nationally. Although production volume declined by 10.9% compared to 2022, the report attributes this dip to a strategic shift by many breweries toward alternative beverage categories such as hard seltzers, ready-to-drink (RTD) products, and non-alcoholic options, reflecting changing market demands.
Ohio’s brewing industry supported 12,255 jobs statewide, generating $427.3 million in labor income and contributing $128.6 million in state and local taxes, along with $99.1 million in federal tax revenue. The sector’s impact extends beyond economic metrics; 116 breweries collectively donated $1.5 million to nonprofit organizations and invested thousands of volunteer hours in local communities during 2024.
Mary MacDonald, executive director of the Ohio Craft Brewers Association, emphasized the industry’s adaptability and commitment to both quality and community, stating, “Craft breweries are here to stay. Despite operating in a challenging and unpredictable business environment, brewers continue to produce world-class products while supporting the communities that sustain them.”
The report underscores that Ohio’s breweries function not only as beverage producers but also as vital local economic engines, creative hubs, and social gathering places. They create diverse employment opportunities across manufacturing, hospitality, marketing, and operations, supporting over 8,000 households throughout the state. The growing consumer demand for high-quality, locally crafted beer, especially in on-premise venues that offer personalized experiences, continues to drive the sector’s influence.
In sum, Ohio’s craft brewing industry remains a dynamic and integral part of the state’s economy and community fabric, adapting swiftly to new market trends while reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of local culture and economic development.
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