Gov. Cuomo Hosts Summit On Alcoholic Beverages To Help Boost Sales, Tourism
ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) - Gov. Andrew Cuomo hosted New York's first wine, beer and spirits summit Wednesday - part of an effort to boost sales and production of the alcoholic beverages.
Cuomo announced plans for a new marketing campaign to promote New York-produced wine, beer, cider and spirits sales and tourism.
A series of new regulatory reforms aimed at reducing business costs for beverage producers was also announced, according to the governor's office.
"Over the past 22 months, my administration has focused on opening New York's doors to business and improving our state's business climate to support growing industries so we can create jobs and grow the economy," Governor Cuomo said. "New York's vibrant beer, wine, cider and spirits industry supports thousands of jobs across the state and is a major driver of tourism in many communities. The important discussion held at this summit and key reforms that resulted continue our work as an entrepreneurial government to partner with the private sector to help key industries thrive and prosper."
Beverage producers in the state account for about $22 billion in annual economic impact, according to the governor's office.
EXTRA: Read The Release
New York is home to more than 450 wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries and the industry is responsible for tens of thousands of jobs, according to a release.
The State Liquor Authority will reduce the fees for some manufacturers' marketing licenses and loosening some restrictions currently placed on beverage companies, according to the governor's office.
The summit was held the same day that it was announced that Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg will be doubling production.
The brewery will install eight new fermenters this week, each capable of producing a million pints of suds per year.
Cuomo previously hosted a similar Greek-style yogurt summit, which helped the dairy industry and yogurt-producing companies thrive in New York State through the easing of some restrictions on dairy farms.
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