Fred Matt is president and CEO of FX Matt Brewing Co. based in Utica.
As president of one of America’s oldest family-owned breweries and one of New York State’s largest, I’ve spent my career watching beer weave itself into the fabric of New York’s communities. For more than a century, breweries like ours have supported local jobs, strengthened Main Street businesses, and created places where people come together. As we begin the new year, it’s worth remembering how important beer is to New York’s economy, culture and social well-being, and why smart policy is more important than ever.
New York is one of the top beer states in the country. According to Beer Serves America’s biennial report, the beer industry supports nearly 145,000 jobs statewide, contributes $31.6 billion in economic impact and pays $10.9 billion in wages. From farmers and distributors to bartenders, servers and small business owners, beer touches nearly every corner of our economy. Nationwide, the industry supports 2.42 million jobs and generates $471 billion in economic activity.
In addition to economic value, beer also provides social value. Neighborhood bars, pubs and restaurants are often one of the few remaining places where people meet in person. At a time when Americans across generations are spending less time with friends and more time online, these local establishments provide something increasingly rare: real human connection. Their support is an investment in both economic stability and community well-being.
Beer is constantly evolving to meet the needs of consumers. Brewers are innovating to give people more options that are consistent with moderation and balance without sacrificing the flavor or shared experience that makes beer special. At FX Matt Brewing, that means offering thoughtfully brewed 3% mid-strength beer like our Saranac Weekend Warrior, designed for longer conversations, shared meals, and moments of connection where quality and responsibility go hand in hand.
These innovations are important not only for consumers, but also for the health of the industry itself. On-premise beer sales now account for more than 15% of the category by volume, according to Beer Institute Sales-to-Retailer data, and have outpaced other sales channels this year. When people choose to gather locally, they support small businesses, hospitality workers, and the social infrastructure that keeps communities strong.
That’s why smart federal policies that help our community and the beer industry are important now more than ever. Legislation as The Hospitality Economic Improvement Creation for Restaurants and Servers (CHEERS) Act, championed by our New York State Congresswoman, Representative Claudia Tenney, recognizes the importance of the hospitality and beverage industry and helps ensure that breweries and local partners can continue to thrive. The CHEERS Act helps local bars and restaurants invest in their tap systems, saving on overall costs and allowing them to reinvest in the people and communities that make their businesses thrive. Policies that support responsible consumption, innovation and local businesses aren’t just good for brewers, they’re good for New York.
As the new year begins, beer will continue to play a role in how New Yorkers celebrate, reconnect and reset. Through thoughtful innovation and smart policy, brewers, legislators and hospitality leaders can work together to ensure our industry remains a source of jobs, community and connection for generations to come. Let’s work together to keep New York’s beer industry strong.
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