As the craft brewing industry grows, the Brewers Association (BA) continues to build resources to assist its members. The BA recently added a new hire, economist Bart Watson, Ph.D., to help study the industry and develop new statistical tools for state guilds and members.

Watson, a graduate of Stanford and University of California, Berkeley, has an educational background in political economy and a Ph.D. in political science. He comes to the BA from a position at the University of Iowa as a visiting assistant professor.

Key Objectives of the New Economist Position

• Conduct a national impact study of craft beer including state by state details
• Act as a statistical spokesperson for the craft brewing industry
• Execute the collection, crunching, analysis, and compiling of the annual statistical issue of The New Brewer magazine

The craft brewing industry truly piqued Watson’s interest on a tour of Anchor Brewing. During his travels as an ultimate frisbee player he has had the opportunity to enjoy brews from across the country and around the world.

The BA welcomes Bart Watson to the team and looks forward to his contribution to the industry.