TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey’s craft breweries could see a tourism boost from a bill sponsored by Assemblyman Hal Wirths and passed by the Assembly and Senate Thursday.
The bill (A1091) directs the state Division of Travel and Tourism to establish and market brewery trails in relation to other vacation destinations or tourist attractions. It previously and unanimously passed the Assembly in November, but was back to concur with technical Senate amendments.
“New Jersey has some of the best craft beer in the nation,” Wirths (R-Sussex) said. “Independently, the breweries are doing really well because of the high quality of the product. Giving them more exposure by creating beer trails will add to the good reputation while helping other businesses in the area.”
At least three breweries would be linked in a vacation itinerary that would identify nearby restaurants, lodging, arts and cultural attractions and more on an interactive website.
“I want to give small business owners all the help they can get,” Wirths said.
According to research, New Jersey has seen a 43 percent growth in its craft beer industry since 2015. The state tied with Kentucky for the most craft brewery growth in the nation.