Beer industry- a major source of economic growth in U.S.

30/08/05 As Americans celebrate the Labor Day weekend, kicking back and relaxing with good food, good drinks and good friends, they can take comfort in knowing that a summer activity staple -- ice cold beer -- is also providing numerous jobs and revenue to the country's economy. According to a recent economic impact study, the beer industry is a major source of employment in the U.S.

The Beer Institute, representing American and international brewers, and the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA), representing nearly 2,000 beer distributors nationwide, have released a 2005 Beer Industry Economic Impact study.

According to the study's findings, directly and indirectly, the beer industry provides nearly 1.8 million jobs for hard-working Americans, generating more than $54 billion in annual wages, and more than $162 billion in U.S. economic activity.

The beer industry's economic success does not just come back in revenue. In addition to providing jobs and supporting charitable and civic efforts, beer distributors and brewers are also a positive force within communities to promote responsible consumption of their products by those of legal drinking age. The industry sponsors many valuable education and awareness programs to help prevent drunk driving and fight illegal underage drinking. These activities complement many public and private initiatives that together have achieved significant reductions in underage drinking and drunk driving over a 20 year period.