312120 - Breweries

When it comes to understanding the diverse world of manufacturing, NAICS Code 312120 - Breweries plays a vital role in classifying businesses engaged in the exciting and flavorful industry of beer brewing. Whether you’re an entrepreneur aiming to start a craft brewery or a supplier exploring manufacturing segments, knowing the details about this NAICS code can help you navigate the market confidently.

What Is NAICS Code 312120?

NAICS Code 312120 defines the industry comprising establishments primarily engaged in brewing beer, ale, malt liquors, and nonalcoholic beer. This classification specifically covers businesses involved in producing a variety of malt beverages and related products.

Sector Overview: Manufacturing

• Sector: Manufacturing
• This code falls under the manufacturing sector, emphasizing the production and processing aspect of brewing.
• Businesses here transform raw materials such as grain and hops into finished products like beer and ale.

Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 312120

Organizations classified under this code may engage in any of the following:

• Ale brewing
• Beer brewing
• Lager brewing
• Malt liquor brewing
• Nonalcoholic beer brewing (including near beer)
• Porter and stout brewing
• Production of brewers' spent grain (a by-product)

Size Standards: Eligibility for Small Business Programs

• The Small Business Size Standard for NAICS 312120 Breweries is 1,250 employees.
• This means businesses with 1,250 or fewer employees may qualify as small businesses for government contracting and other benefits targeting small enterprises.

Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 312120

Here are some typical types of businesses included in this industry classification:

• Craft Breweries: Small to medium breweries focusing on unique blends and artisanal brewing techniques.
• Microbreweries: Smaller-scale breweries that produce limited quantities, often without an attached restaurant or bar.
• Large-scale Beer Production Facilities: High-capacity breweries producing mass-market brands for regional and national distribution.

Detailed Breakdown of Code Elements for NAICS 312120

NAICS Code Element	Description
Ale brewing	Breweries specializing in ale production
Beer brewing	The general brewing of beer
Beverages, beer, ale, and malt liquors, manufacturing	Manufacturing of various malt beverages
Breweries	Establishments primarily engaged in brewing
Grain, brewers’ spent, manufacturing	Production of spent grain, a by-product of brewing
Lager brewing	Brewing of lager-style beers
Malt liquor brewing	Brewing of malt liquor varieties
Microbreweries without restaurant or bar	Smaller breweries without an on-site food or drink service
Near beer brewing	Brewing of “near beer” (nonalcoholic or very low alcohol)
Nonalcoholic beer brewing	Production of nonalcoholic beer
Porter brewing	Brewing porter-style beers
Stout brewing	Brewing stout-style beers

FAQ: NAICS Code 312120 - Breweries

Q1: What types of beers are included under NAICS 312120?
A1: This code includes ale, lager, porter, stout, malt liquors, nonalcoholic beer, and near beer varieties.

Q2: Can microbreweries with bars qualify under NAICS 312120?
A2: No, microbreweries classified under this code typically do not have an attached restaurant or bar.

Q3: What is the significance of the 1,250 employee size standard?
A3: It determines eligibility for small business programs in government contracting. Breweries with fewer than 1,250 employees qualify as small businesses.

Q4: Do breweries producing nonalcoholic beer fall under this NAICS code?
A4: Yes, establishments producing nonalcoholic beer are included under NAICS 312120.

Q5: Does NAICS 312120 cover distribution and retail sales?
A5: No, this code is focused solely on the manufacturing (brewing) process, not distribution or retail.

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Knowing the ins and outs of NAICS Code 312120 allows breweries and stakeholders to better position themselves in the manufacturing landscape, tap into relevant opportunities, and comply with industry classifications effectively. Whether launching a craft brewery or analyzing market competitors, this code serves as a foundational reference within the beer and malt beverage manufacturing sector.