Beer distribution operations in Arkansas employ 865, generates $63.6 million in annual wages

The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) and Arkansas’ independent beer distributors have released a new study showing the full direct-jobs impact beer has on the Arkansas economy.

According to the report, Arkansas beer distributors fuel 865 direct jobs, from “truck drivers to graphic artists and sales representatives,” said NBWA President and CEO Craig Purser.

In the economic impact report entitled “America’s Beer Distributors: Fueling Jobs, Generating Economic Growth, and Delivering Value to Local Communities,” it was determined more than 3,000 beer distribution facilities directly employ 135,000 men and women in communities across the country.

Dr. Bill Latham and Dr. Ken Lewis of the Center for Applied Business and Economic Research at the University of Delaware — the report’s authors — provide a comprehensive look at beer distribution companies’ total impact on national and state economies. In addition to the impact of distributor operations, the report accounts for resources contributed by beer distributors in supporting community events and local economic development, contributing to charitable causes and promoting responsible alcohol use.

Following are some of the report findings.
• Arkansas beer distribution facilities directly employ 865 people, who earn $63.6 million in wages and salaries.

• Arkansas beer distributors add $400.5 million to the nation’s gross domestic product.

• Arkansas beer distributor activities generate $1.2 million in economic impacts to communities through support of charities, local events and economic development.

• Arkansas beer distributor activities contribute $81.3 million to the federal, state and local tax bases. This does not include an added $65 million in federal, state and local alcohol excise and consumption taxes on beer sold in Arkansas.

• The Arkansas beer distribution industry contributes more than $114 million in transportation efficiencies for the beer industry each year.

“Independent beer distributors do much more than deliver fresh beer,” Purser said. “They provide significant economic benefits in their communities through local business-to-business commerce; investments in 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.”