NBWA Hires New Chief Economist

The National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) has hired Lester Jones, formerly of the Beer Institute, to serve as the organization’s chief economist.

In his new role, Jones will examine the economic factors that impact the beer distribution industry, as well as alcohol policy regulations at the local, state, and federal levels.

“America’s beer distributors deliver enormous economic value to communities across this country,” NBWA president and CEO Craig Purser said in a statement. “Lester’s work as Chief Economist will augment that great story, and his research will be influential in policy discussions that involve state-based alcohol regulation, the three-tier system and independent beer distributors.”

Additionally, Jones “will evaluate and develop primary industry data, including economic impact, tax impacts, sales and volume data,” per the NBWA statement.

“Lester is a solid addition to the NBWA team and will bring significant contributions to the beer distribution industry,” added Purser.

Jones was not immediately available for comment.

According to the NBWA, America’s beer distributors contribute “nearly” $10.3 billion to the federal, state, and local tax bases, not including the $11 billion in federal, state, and local alcohol excise and consumption taxes. The industry, the statement continues, adds $54 billion to the nation’s gross domestic product.