Bud Distributing Inc.’s commitment to service shines with the holiday season sales spike

December 21, 2023

Local, family-owned beer distributor keeps the holiday spirit alive ensuring stocked shelves, full taps


DOWAGIAC, Mich. — The holiday season is in full swing, and local, independent beer and wine distributors are shining because of their unwavering dedication to helping ensure that shelves remain abundantly stocked with a wide variety of beverages. Bud Distributing Inc. is a beacon of reliability, tirelessly working to keep taps flowing and glasses full across Southwest Michigan.

 

“Our dedication to distribution is all-encompassing, reflecting our passion for not only delivering but also elevating and growing the brands in our portfolio, many of which are crafted in our local communities,” said Jenna Podjan, sales manager at Bud Distributing Inc. “During the holiday season—a peak period for us—our devoted team works tirelessly to ensure deliveries are on time, shelves are stocked, and creative displays are in local retail spaces. This concerted effort gives consumers an array of choices as they gear up for their gatherings this holiday season.”

 

Beer and wine distributors’ operations include many components, ranging from diligently managing the products in their warehouses to engaging with each product multiple times before it reaches the consumer’s hands. They go beyond commerce, giving back to and supporting their local business neighbors and the people who live and work in the communities they proudly serve.

 

Founded by John Nate Jr. in 1970, Bud Distributing is proud to represent a strong portfolio of alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, including several brands that are produced in the local communities it serves. The distributor employs 41 people while serving Southwest Michigan.

 

“Community isn't just a place; it's the heart of everything we do,” Podjan said. “We embrace the opportunity to give back and uplift those who contribute to the vibrancy of the places where we live and work. We deeply value our cherished relationships with our suppliers, business partners, and community members, who we are so honored to serve during the busy holiday season and every day. Cheers to a fantastic 2023 and an even more remarkable 2024!”

Detroit News: This industry thrives because of the people who power it

By Rebecca Stow • December 30, 2025
As we close out the year, I’ve found myself reflecting on the milestones our industry has achieved and the people who made them possible. The skilled professionals who work in Michigan’s beer and wine distribution industry often start with a job that evolves into a long, fulfilling career with family-owned businesses deeply rooted in the communities they serve. Throughout 2025, the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association was proud to share the stories of over 100 individuals from across our industry, including women leaders, logistics professionals, truck drivers, veterans, salespeople, and more. We posed a simple question: What do you love most about working in beer and wine distribution? Across each campaign, a clear theme emerged among the answers: the people. Michigan’s independent beer and wine distributors support more than 6,400 jobs statewide, and each one involves building relationships. Whether helping a new restaurant choose the perfect draft lineup or wine list, sharing knowledge about new products and trends, making a delivery, or supporting a team member through their first big sale, these individuals take pride in working together to help their business partners and communities thrive. They know that success in the beer and wine industry isn’t just about what’s in the bottle—it’s about the people behind it. Throughout the holiday season and beyond, beer and wine distributors bring commitment and expertise to every aspect of this fast-paced, constantly evolving industry. They help consumers access a wide variety of quality products that are often shared during life’s big and small celebrations, bringing people together through shared experiences and traditions. The camaraderie in this industry sets it apart, creating meaningful work built on collaboration, trust, and shared success. Michigan’s beer and wine distributors are always seeking talented individuals to join their teams. From marketing, finance, and sales to warehouse operations, truck driving, or other essential roles, there are many rewarding career paths to explore. We encourage anyone interested in a dynamic, people-focused industry to reach out to their local distributors and learn more about available opportunities. As we look ahead to a new year, the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association remains committed to elevating and amplifying the remarkable work our distributors do. Their dedication turns everyday work into community impact and makes this industry truly exceptional. Spencer Nevins is the president of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association in Lansing.

Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association to open new headquarters in Boji Tower

By Rebecca Stow • December 8, 2025
LANSING, Mich. – The MB&WWA is proud to announce the opening of its new headquarters in the historic Boji Tower in downtown Lansing this Thursday, Dec. 11.

Ypsilanti-based O&W Inc. celebrates Giving Tuesday with donations to four local nonprofits

By Rebecca Stow • November 26, 2025
YPSILANTI, Mich. – As Giving Tuesday approaches on Dec. 2, O&W Inc., a fifth-generation beer distributor in Ypsilanti, celebrates its tradition of giving back.