The Beer Institute has launched a new consumer-facing website StandWithBeer.org, which sheds a light on “how large liquor companies inflate their bottom line by exploiting loopholes in our tax code.” It is a unique push by an alcohol industry trade group to inform the consumer of legislative “advantages” afforded to another industry segment.
“Beer has always been an iconic part of American culture, and StandWithBeer.org is an unparalleled tool to teach consumers about the vibrant $409 billion beer industry while holding the liquor industry accountable,” said Brian Crawford, president and CEO of the Beer Institute. Said in a press release. “Our mission is to provide a comprehensive resource for consumers, the press and elected officials to learn about how beer is unique and provides more options and transparency to consumers than other forms of alcohol. StandWithBeer.org also exposes the tactics liquor companies use to exploit tax loopholes that allow them to lower their effective tax rate to the detriment of American consumers and taxpayers. StandWithBeer.org will empower consumers to make more informed choices and have their voices heard. We invite all beer enthusiasts who make beer America’s favorite alcohol beverage to visit this platform and stand up for beer.”
The website covers the economic contributions of beer as well as the “moderate consumption” that beer delivers versus spirits. “Everyone knows that a vodka martini and a beer are not the same things, but do you know how much alcohol is actually poured into a hard liquor drink or a glass of wine compared to a can or pint of beer,” the website explains.
The website then has a section titled, “Handouts to liquor put brewers at a disadvantage” which covers the tax code that allows liquor producers to lower their effective tax rate by making liquor with wine and flavorings, tax advantages for liquor manufacturers and tax refunds for certain types of rum.
See the website here.