I am writing in support of approving "3VAC5-60-110. Contract brewing arrangements" as written.

As a Fairfax County Resident, it was a disappointment to move to Northern Virginia as a beer enthusiast knowing that most beers needed to be imported in from other states and there were very few good breweries and brewpubs when there was so much support for the wine industry in Fairfax and Loudon counties.  

There is a lot of untapped demand and opportunity within our state to help the craft brewing industry grow as many other states are already supporting and fostering the growth of the craft brewing industry.   Enabling a contract brewery to operate can only boost our local economy and help support a growing demand in the craft brewing industry.  The craft brewing industry (defined as a small, independent and traditional brewery manufacturing less than 6 million barrels a year) just surpassed the 15% mark in the overall beer market as the other 85% is dominated by the larger manufacturers like Anheuser Busch and MillerCoors, both of which have breweries in the state of Virginia.  In general, the brewing industry has been growing at least 1% by volume annually and is projected to continue to grow.  There is a lot of pride to support small businesses owned and operated within Virginia and a craft-based contract brewery would allow just that.  

Expanding a business is expensive and the capacity available at a contract brewery could help a growing brewery meet it's increasing demand or even allow popular out-of-state brews the be brewed fresh within our state borders so our residents can enjoy the beer as it might be enjoyed straight from a brewery in Illinois or Oregon.  The brewery itself would employ Virginia residents and help build a solid craft beer industry similar to our excellent wine heritage.