Not that anyone needs much prompting beyond the 90-degree forecast today, but beer lovers need to find their favorite brew pub, neighborhood bar, or other watering hole before the day is out to celebrate the arrival on the scene of National IPA Day today, Thursday, August 4th.
Michigan’s beer distributors are joining craft brewers and beer drinkers alike in marking today's celebration of National IPA Day.
Spencer Nevins is President of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association and he says, “From West Coast-style IPAs to those brewed with Michigan-grown hops, and every style in between, craft beer drinkers have a wide range of options to choose from to celebrate National IPA Day.” Nevins adds, “Michigan’s beer distributors work tirelessly with brewers big and small to get their beer onto store shelves and on tap at retailers, bars and restaurants across the state.”
National IPA Day is held each year on the first Thursday in August to celebrate one of craft beers’ most iconic and popular styles. IPAs, or India Pale Ales, were first brewed by the British in the late 1700’s to withstand what was then a six month journey from Britain to India. In 2015 IPAs accounted for nearly a quarter of all craft beer sold.
Nevins points out that, “Thanks to Michigan’s independent, family-owned beer distributors, our state has over 200 small breweries and brewpubs and is the fifth largest beer producer in the country.” He adds, “The state’s beer industry is poised for more growth, and distributors are proud to play a role in Michigan’s continued success story.”
Michigan’s beer distributors employ 5,000 people and have a direct economic impact of more than $610 million in the state. When you take into account the totality of the state’s beer industry, including brewers, distributors, retailers and supporting industries such as agriculture, transportation and hospitality, more than $6.6 billion is pumped into the state’s economy each year. According to a report released in 2015 by the National Beer Wholesalers Association and the Beer Institute, Michigan ranks No. 8 nationally in total beer jobs and 14th in total economic output.
So, keep in mind that "it's five o'clock somewhere," and find your favorite IPA either at a retailer, a brewery, or your neighborhood restaurant or bar and mark the occasion with the IPA of your choice. The brew-masters and distributors will thank you for helping boost the state's economy.
