Study: CPG industry essential to American job market

The consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry supports 20.4 million American jobs that generate $1.1 trillion in labor income, and contribute $2 trillion to the nation's GDP, according to a new report by the Arlington, Va.-based Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA).

The CPG industry encompasses the food, beverage, household and personal care products that Americans depend on every day. The industry's direct impact alone is massive, totaling 2.3 million jobs in 2017, paying labor income of $151.0 billion and adding $361.3 billion to the nation's GDP. The average income for employees of the CPG industry is $4,000 more than the national income average ($64,700 versus $60,700). The industry also directly accounts for 18% of all U.S. manufacturing employment.

"The CPG industry's impact on the American economy cannot be understated," said GMA President and CEO Geoff Freeman. "Most people don't consider the jobs and livelihoods they are supporting when they purchase a new tube of toothpaste or stock up on their favorite snacks, but the products we all rely on each day have an enormous impact on our economy."

To read the GMA report, click here.