A frosty mug of economic development

Source: homewetbar.com

I don’t know about the rest of you, but from what I have observed over the past few years, beer has become an excellent economic development tool regardless of region. In the past year or so, I have observed packed brewpubs, craft breweries, and beer bars in locations like:

• Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Carmel, Indiana
• Lansing, Michigan
• East Lansing, Michigan
• Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Kalamazoo, Michigan
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Newport, Rhode Island
• Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania
• Eureka, California
• Nevada City, California
• Ashland, Oregon
• Gardner, Massachusetts
• Westminster, Massachusetts
• Brookline, Massachusetts

My thoroughly unscientific surveys have found that brewpubs tend to be vibrant and active throughout most of the day, whether it’s the noon hour, mid-afternoon, dinner, or well into the evening, especially when they have an innovative and fun menu selection to compliment the lagers and ales. The brewpub’s business will often translate into a hearty increase in foot traffic on the adjoining sidewalks, as well as more customers for nearby shops, stores, venues, and restaurants.

Meanwhile, craft breweries regularly draw tourists and shoppers who are eager to witness the brewing process and enjoy a taste of the local froth. Their clientele spills over to nearby businesses, including restaurants, shops, gas stations, and lodging.

Standing Stone Brewery

One of my favorite aspects of beer-based economic development is how many of the craft brewers and brewpubs lovingly restore and renovate historic buildings in the community for their location. In Ashland, Oregon, Standing Stone Brewery is located in a 1920s era automobile repair garage while in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Brewery Vivant deftly occupies a former mortuary and chapel. Many brewpub sites are unique unto themselves and provide the visitor with a novel experience.

Brewery Vivant

The craft beer industry is definitely on a growth curve in the United States. Here is a handy weblink to data on the industry. As of 2011, there were 1,940 craft breweries operating. For cities and towns across the country, hopping a ride on the ole beer wagon might just a tasty recipe to consider for what “ales” their local economy.