There is nothing “micro” about the craft beer industry in Pennsylvania and Ohio. According to the Brewers Association, together the states produce more than 5 million barrels of beer annually.  This production translates into an economic impact of nearly $8.5 billion a year. By comparison, California produced 3.4 million barrels. The craft brewing industry has experienced an exceptional rate of growth.  The Brewers of Pennsylvania, the state’s official brewing guild, report their members “employ an estimated 10,000 employees earning $296 million in wages and generating $1.1 billion in direct economic benefits to communities throughout the state.” Perhaps even more impressive is that the rate of growth of craft beer consumption exceeds the rate of growth of the “majors” and that differences in growth rates show no signs of slowing down. Craft beer is big business in Pennsylvania and Ohio.