Earl Smith Distributing Plays Role In Continued Growth Of Michigan’s Beer Industry

Earl Smith Distributing, a family owned, independent beer distributor located in Port Huron, plays a role in the continued growth of Michigan’s beer industry.  According to a new report released by the National Beer Wholesalers Association and the Beer Institute, Michigan’s beer industry has a $10.2 billion impact on the state’s economy. Michigan’s beer distributors alone have an economic impact of more than $830 million and employ over 4,700 people in good-paying jobs with good benefits.  “This report leaves little doubt how much Michiganders love their beer, and it helps quantify just how much the state’s beer industry contributes to Michigan’s continued economic comeback,” said Erik Smith, Vice President of Operations at Earl Smith. “We’re proud to work with breweries big and small right here in Michigan, across the country and around the world to help them compete, grow and thrive on a level playing field.”   In 2018, the state’s beer industry, which includes brewers, distributors, retailers and supporting industries like agriculture, transportation and manufacturing, pumped nearly $10.2 billion into Michigan’s economy, employed over 62,000 people and paid more than $2.6 billion in wages.  “On all levels of the supply chain, the beer industry continues to have a positive impact on Michigan’s economy – from malthouses and hop farms to breweries and local retailers – and we expect this growth to continue,” Smith said. “Michigan is a Top 5 beer producer and home to some of the most innovative breweries in the country, making it not just the Great Lakes State but the Great Beer State, too.”  Earl Smith Distributing serves retailers in Michigan’s Thumb area including St. Clair, Tuscola, Sanilac and Huron counties.