JACKSON, Miss.- The craft beer industry is one of Mississippi’s fastest growing markets. There has been an increase from two to ten breweries over the past 3 years. The impact the beer industry brings on our economy is vast. So far, it has brought $991 million dollars to the state’s economy, producing about $230 million in total sacks contributions, and over 12,000 people employed.
Doctor Rick Miles owns Hops and Habanas in Jackson and Madison, and he has seen rapid growth in the market.
“We’re still learning, but with that being said, I think they’re also putting out great products.”
There are currently ten breweries in the state that are distributed. The Natchez brewery just opened last week. “Otherwise we have Southern Prohibition out of Hattiesburg, Crooked Letters out of Gulfport, Luckytown here in Jackson, we have Yalabousha, Oxford, Chandelleir brewing. Sweet Gum Brewing out of Starkville, and of course Lazy Magnolia.”
There are also breweries in Ocean Springs, and in Laurel that are still coming to the market as well.