Detroit News: Nevins: Beer and wine distributors positively impact communities

May 5, 2025

Let’s Celebrate Michigan’s Independent Beer and Wine Distributors During Small Business Month

May is Small Business Month—a time to recognize the hardworking people who power our economy and invest in our communities. Among them are Michigan’s independent beer and wine distributors: local businesses that make it possible for your favorite beverages to reach your neighborhood stores, restaurants and bars.

 

These family-owned companies have deep roots in the communities they serve, with many tracing their beginnings back to the end of Prohibition in 1933. Over the decades, multiple generations have grown their operations and evolved to meet the changing needs of consumers, suppliers and retailers across Michigan.

 

Today, they provide thousands of good-paying jobs with benefits. Michigan beer distributors employ 3,806 people and wine distributors employ 2,641 individuals—together supporting more than 6,400 jobs across the state. From drivers and warehouse teams to sales, logistics and operations professionals, these are high-impact jobs that drive economic growth across Michigan—from busy cities to rural communities to the lakeshores and across the Upper Peninsula.

 

Beyond job creation, Michigan beer and wine distributors help ensure a vibrant and competitive marketplace by working with over 2,000 alcohol producers, including more than 800 based right here in the Great Lakes State. They warehouse, sell, deliver, merchandise and market a vast selection of quality products, making it easier for retailers to stock local favorites and exciting new offerings.

 

The impacts of these businesses extend far beyond logistics. Beer and wine distributors are also deeply committed to giving back to the communities where they are proud to live and work. They invest more than $6.5 million in over 2,200 charities and community-based events every year.

 

Michigan’s beer and wine distributors understand the challenges that come with growth, innovation and adaptation. They continue to lead with integrity, helping new brands reach the marketplace, empowering consumer choice, and upholding the standards of Michigan’s Three-Tier System for alcohol distribution.

 

During Small Business Month, we are proud to recognize these local companies for their economic impact, community investment, and dedication to keeping Michigan’s beer and wine industry thriving. And we are looking forward to an exciting future ahead.

 

Spencer Nevins is the president of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association in Lansing.

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.